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Twisted Façade with Photovoltaic Glass Elevates Urban Interaction

Author:
Reuben Robotham
Twisted Façade with Photovoltaic Glass Elevates Urban Interaction
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The twisting façade of the tower, designed for optimal solar gain with integrated photovoltaic glass, creates a striking new landmark in London’s urban landscape while providing multifunctional spaces for retail and office use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisted façade optimizes solar exposure for energy generation.
02
Integrated photovoltaic glass supports sustainable energy production.
03
Urban plaza enhances community interaction and public space.
04
Multi-level design accommodates both retail and office functions.
05
Viewing platform offers panoramic views of London’s skyline.

The Twisted Sky Hive Tower is situated in the Isle of Dogs, London, and focuses on sustainability and energy efficiency. Its design centers on producing more energy than it consumes, a goal that aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility in modern buildings. Positioned in a dynamic urban setting, the tower serves multiple functions while responding to the needs of its surroundings.

Architectural Form and Energy Efficiency

The tower features a twisting form that combines visual appeal with practical benefits. The rotation of the building's façade enhances sunlight exposure, allowing for effective use of clear photovoltaic glass panels. This configuration maximizes solar energy capture, pivotal for achieving the goal of a positive energy building.

Site Context and Integration

Set within an urban docklands area along the River Thames, the tower's location is strategic. It is near significant commercial areas like Canary Wharf, which adds to its relevance in the city. The design promotes connectivity with the surrounding community, featuring an urban plaza that links the building with nearby spaces. This plaza encourages interaction and makes the area more vibrant.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The interior layout of the Twisted Sky Hive Tower supports various activities. Retail spaces occupy levels 0 and 1, creating an engaging atmosphere at ground level. Above that, levels 3 to 48 accommodate office spaces, serving the business community. The viewing platform on the uppermost levels, 49 and 50, offers impressive views of the city, enriching the visitor experience. A car park located at level -1 ensures convenience while efficiently using space.

Materials and Structural Integrity

Reinforced concrete is used in the construction, providing the strength needed for the tower’s unique shape. Double-glazed windows are incorporated to improve energy efficiency and allow natural light into the interior. This combination of materials plays a vital role in supporting a sustainable approach to design.

Natural light enters the interior spaces through strategically placed windows, enhancing the overall experience and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. The building aims to create an environment that is both functional and inviting for its users.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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