Taller. Flashier. Even more grandiose. What else could be expected of the centerpiece planned for Moscow's changing skyline? Soaring even higher than the Federation Tower, which upon completion will surpass Frankfurt's Commerzbank as the tallest building in Europe, the Rossiya Tower will measure 600 meters and take on the shape of a glass tripartite spire.
Visiting the construction site of the future financial hub, it is difficult to imagine the truly spectacular structure that will arise out of the foundation. Yet, 10 years from now it may become impossible to imagine the Moscow skyline without it. Construction of the tower began shortly after the ground-breaking event last September attended by Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov and other government officials.
Moscow, as Europe's most populous metropolis, may seem naturally fitting for the continent's highest tower. However, less predictable is the type of building in question: a green, ecolo-gical innovation. While Moscow is not known for her energy efficiency, ten years from now she might be.
Although Taipei 101 in Taiwan still trumps it in sheer size, the Rossiya Tower will undisputedly become the largest building in the world with a natural ventilation system. A multi-functional edifice, it will incorporate residential, leisure, retail and office space. Lower levels will host offices, stores and an ice rink, while upper floors will be reserved for apartments and a hotel. This structure plays a key role in the energy efficiency of the tower, as each sector of the building will use electricity and heat during different times of the day.
The firm that designed the tower, Foster + Partners, described the distinguishing energy cycle as "...a hot water circuit [which] runs through the building, distributing the energy to regulate the temperature and heat water throughout the day, throughout the year." This system includes heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.
The pyramid shape of the building allows for optimal use of natural sunlight. Green skygardens at the peak of the inhabited part of the tower provide for natural ventilation and a relaxation area for residents. Bars and cafes are located at the top of the building and open to the public, complete with an observation deck overlooking the city. Foster + Partners' plans to make the tower "a magnetic new attraction for both visitors and residents of Moscow."
In another sustainable building project in Moscow, Foster + Partners announced on December 21that they have received preliminary planning permission for their unprecedented Crystal Island construction on Nagatino Peninsula. After designing Rossiya Tower they hope to go ahead with "the world's largest inhabited building." It will encompass 2.5 million square meters and house museums, theaters and cinemas, in addition to offering hotel and residence space. Similar to the Rossiya Tower, Crystal Island will involve an innovative and efficient energy plan, presenting the city with yet another major green building. If this continues, Moscow - now known for its unabashed energy use and industrial emissions - may acquire a reputation as a world leader in sustainable construction.
By C. Anne Shupe
