cyprus international university
B
o
INPD309
DESIGN FOR SUSTAINABILITY
s
c
Sr. Instr. Abdulsalam Ibrahim
o
SHEMA Milan, Italy
Verticale Anisa Kasymova
22108565
A house for trees inhabited by humans
history
— Stefano Boeri
Boeri conceived the idea of constructing a skyscraper covered in trees in April
2007 while he was the director of Domus. During a visit to the metropolis of Dubai in
the United Arab Emirates, the architect had the impression of being in a "mineral
city, made up of dozens of new towers and skyscrapers, all clad in glass or
ceramics or metal, all reflecting sunlight and therefore generating heat in the air
and especially on the ground inhabited by pedestrians.
a complex of two residential
skyscrapers designed by Stefano
Boeri
located in the Porta Nuova district of Milan, Italy.
height of 116 metres and 84 m and within the complex is
an 11-storey office building.
[Link]
over two thousand tree species, including tall shrubs and trees, distributed on the facades.
aims to increase the biodiversity of plant and animal
reducing urban sprawl
contributing to the mitigation of the
microclimate.
"fifty most iconic skyscrapers in the world" in
2019.
"most beautiful and innovative
skyscraper in the world" in 2015
[Link]
Sustainable Design Principles and Practices:
Air Quality Improvement: The inclusion of over 20,000 trees, 5,000 shrubs, and 11,000 floral plants on the towers
helps absorb carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, and filter pollutants from the air. This contributes to improved air
quality in the surrounding area.
Biodiversity: The vertical forest acts as a habitat for birds and insects, promoting biodiversity within an urban
setting. The inclusion of various plant species supports a more resilient ecosystem.
Energy Efficiency: The vegetation on the towers provides natural shading, reducing the need for air conditioning in the
summer and acting as an insulator in the winter. This helps in lowering energy consumption for heating and cooling.
Rainwater Harvesting: The greenery on the towers aids in the absorption of rainwater, reducing runoff and contributing
to water conservation. Additionally, an irrigation system utilizes recycled water to nourish the plants.
[Link]
Aesthetic and Psychological Benefits: Beyond environmental considerations, the project recognizes the importance
of integrating nature into the urban environment for the well-being of residents. The greenery provides aesthetic
appeal and creates a healthier and more enjoyable living space.
Intended Impact:The Bosco Verticale aimed to set a precedent for sustainable urban architecture and inspire
similar projects worldwide. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of incorporating greenery into high-rise
structures, it sought to contribute to a more sustainable and livable urban future.
Social Spaces: The presence of green spaces within the towers creates opportunities for community interaction and
engagement.
Shared Benefits: Residents can enjoy the benefits of nature within an urban setting, fostering a sense of connection
with the environment.
Visual Appeal: The vertical forest enhances the aesthetic appeal of the urban landscape, breaking the monotony of
traditional architectural designs.
Psychological Well-being: Living or working in an environment with greenery has been associated with improved mental
well-being and reduced stress.
Sound Insulation: The vegetation can act as a barrier, helping to reduce noise from the surrounding urban
environment, providing a quieter living space.
Sustainable Architecture:
Innovative Design: Bosco Verticale is an example of innovative and sustainable architecture, showcasing a
different approach to urban living that prioritizes environmental considerations.
Resource Efficiency: The design incorporates energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials,
contributing to a more eco-friendly building.
Community Interaction:
The Bosco Verticale under construction in 2011
Towers with trees planted
Construction of the Bosco Verticale began in the autumn of 2009, employing around six thousand onsite construction
[Link] mid-2010 and early 2011, construction progressed very slowly and the towers rose by only five floors
while the core rose to the seventh floor.
The design was tested in a wind tunnel to ensure the trees would not topple from gusts of wind. Botanists
and horticulturalists were consulted by the engineering team to ensure that the structure could bear the
load imposed by the plants.
[Link]
The diversity of the plants and
their characteristics produce
humidity, absorb CO2 and dust
particles, producing oxygen and
protect the building from
radiation and acoustic pollution.
This not only improves the
quality of living spaces, but gives
way to dramatic energy savings
year round.
