Contrasting materials are employed within each grouping, where
the ‘outer’ smooth metallic element is complemented by an ‘in-
ner’ use of textured materials. Throughout the building the cluster
concept of the facade is designed to maximise levels of transpar-
ency and frame the views towards the sky, thereby lending the
tower a softer and more nuanced silhouette.
The elevation additionally offers sustainability benefits. The sur-
face modelling creates opportunities for shading, balancing good
internal daylight and views with reduced heat gains. The articula-
tion of the facade will additionally reduce wind down drafts and,
in combination with canopy proposals at the base of the building,
provide an improved pedestrian microclimate.
The modelling of the balconies within each grouped cluster lends
variability to the facade and the living experience for the resi-
dents in the building. As outdoor spaces play a large role in the
enjoyment of living environments, the creation of unique, shel-
tered spaces of high quality was a driver in early design devel-
opment. The aspect of using both textured and smooth materials
contrasts with the expected contemporariness of a typical high-
rise metal construction and lends this facade a residential ‘twist.’
Ben van Berkel: “The detailing and contrasting of the materialisa-
tion of the façade and the balconies plays a key role in the identity
of the building and is in fact borrowed from furniture design. This
is an approach which we more typically apply to designs for small-
Photo Info : Hufton + Crow www.huftonandcrow.com
Eva Bloem www.evabloem.com
As outdoor spaces play a large
role in the enjoyment of living
environments, the creation of
unique, sheltered spaces of high
quality was a driver in early design
developmen
er private houses, however following extensive research into the
potential for extending durability and maintenance we were able
to create unexpected material variations on a larger scale.”
Outside of the privacy afforded by the 190 individual living units,
the Canaletto tower caters for a variety of collective leisure activ-
ities by way of shared amenities where the residents can enjoy
healthy leisure pursuits or relax in areas designed for gathering
and socialising.
A landscaped garden on Wharf Road provides access to the resi-
dential lobby, whilst the ground floor garden frames the entrance
lobby and provides a green oasis off the busy City Road. A public
restaurant will also be located at the base of the building on City
Road