ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
As a central core element dividing two defined wings of the podium , as well as the twin towers rising behind it , alternating frosted and clear glass diagonal slats define the bulbous podium entrance and atrium , twisting upwards like roots of a Banyan tree . Flanking it on either side , a horizontal expression of earth-toned Italian travertine panels line the podium façade , symbolizing the strata of the soil around the roots of the Banyan tree . In all , 17,439 individual panels complete the podium ’ s natural stone façade , with louvers embedded in the design to enable airflow through gaps created by their rotation .
“ The original design was undeveloped for public terraces when construction ceased , so we are creating seven unique spaces at varying levels of the podium ,” notes Mr . Ching . “ The terraces will provide a variety of unique experiences , and we ’ ve already had proposals for an outdoor food and beverage establishment , an artistic walk , an exotic garden , a sunshine deck , an observation platform , an aesthetic lifestyle space , and a visual pattern garden .”
“ Retail facades require a certain amount of ventilation , and this solution provided us with a sort of screen element ,” explains Mr . Ching . “ By rotating the panels and creating openings , we are able to create an effective airflow .”
A GREEN LIGHT
As part of the complex ’ s master plan , the landscaping programming is an important element that will independently add botanical gardens , water features , art installations , an amphitheatre , and much more to the plaza area in front of the buildings . In keeping with the green spirit of the northern facing cityscape , LMCA incorporated numerous green spaces into its design , including multiple rooftop terraces with unobstructed views on varying levels of the podium .
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