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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 Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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