The planned demolition of an abandoned tobacco warehouse, focus of a bitter dispute involving developers, Jersey City officials and artists who moved in, was likely to anger preservationists bent on saving the city’s industrial district. So city officials called on a big name yesterday, Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, to unveil plans for a 52-story “vertical city” of condos and art studios that will dramatically change the city skyline as it replaces the warehouse.
The $400 million project at 111 First St. calls for a mix of apartments, living and work condominium studios for artists, a hotel, stores, parking and a gallery. It’s the first large-scale residential project in the United States for the Dutch-born architect’s firm, the Office of Metropolitan Architecture. Koolhaas, internationally known for designs of striking, practical buildings from Beijing to Seattle, said the new building would blend with the historic warehouse district surrounding it.
The two-acre project, which would replace the P. Lorillard Co. tobacco warehouse, involves a tower of three stacked buildings at First and Washington streets, the Dutch-born architect said. The lower level will include entertainment businesses, retail space, parking and condominium lofts and galleries for artists. A hotel and market-rate condo apartments will be built above those.
The tower takes its unusual shape by facing the middle section at a 90-degree angle from those above and below it. This unique configuration will allow for gardens, open terrace areas for residents, a wading pool and outdoor spaces.
Architect: Office of Metropolitan
Avian-inspired Architecture
At the entrance of the landmark city of Mashhad, Iran, this “living architecture” is inspired by the birds inhabiting the city’s Imam Reza shrine, where tourists flock to take in the architecture & avian dwellers. Driving visitors are greeted by a 28 meter high pillar with moving wings powered when incoming vehicles drive over a subtle bump connected to system of cables & gears. Nestled amidst the ancient backdrop, this modern marvel stands out as both a tribute to one of the city’s historic attractions & a symbol of its importance in the world of tomorrow.
Designers: Naser Nasiri & Taher Nasiri
Luxury HiRise with Diamond Like Facade
As we progress into advancements in architectural and engineering extremes designer Dinesh Doshi felt it important the Z10 Tower remain on the cutting edge and never fall short in the eyes of the global community. Envision a seven star hotel, luxury residential apartments, and satellite offices for the avid business person. This complex dubbed “Z10 TOWERS” becomes the focal point of the project and in turn also the welcoming structure of the complex. The Z10 Towers can be seen as a beacon for miles around symbolizing the emergence of new age architectural thinking. The main towers are backed with a group of six complexes consisting of high end living, providing its residents with their own elevators/party terraces, pools and Jacuzzis for private use while enjoying the soft breeze of the Persian Gulf and its many breathtaking views.
The angled towers requires a counter balanced foundation. The outer skins of the buildings are thermally protected with even sized diamond shaped glazing to enhance the richness of the buildings while creating magnificent 360 degrees of panoramic views.
Designer: Dinesh Doshi
