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Twisting Helicoidal Form Emphasizes Community Interaction in Urban Tower

Authors:
Felipe Giacomin Gripa, Betina De Biazzi, Daniel Regis Cardoso, Fábio Bellucci
Twisting Helicoidal Form Emphasizes Community Interaction in Urban Tower
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A helicoidal tower rises prominently along the Pinheiros River, utilizing a unique twisting form to create diverse spatial experiences and foster community interaction while integrating retail and office functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helicoidal form creates dynamic floor plans with varying layouts.
02
Two legs meet at the top, framing a welcoming central plaza.
03
Mirrored surfaces enhance views while reflecting the surrounding environment.
04
Internal balconies provide access to greenery and natural light.
05
Strategically located at a major urban intersection to shield residential areas.

Vórtice, located on the western banks of the Pinheiros River in São Paulo, is a 60-story tower designed to stand as a significant feature within the urban landscape. The tower showcases a distinct architectural concept focused on movement. Its helicoidal form rotates slightly as it rises, creating a dynamic profile that draws the eye. This design not only enhances the tower's appearance but also offers a varied spatial experience for those inside.

Concept and Form

The concept behind Vórtice emphasizes the idea of motion through a unique twisting structure. Each slab of the tower is rotated five degrees from the one below, which creates distinct floor plans on each level. This method results in an exterior marked by mirrored helicoidal lines, giving the façade an intriguing visual appeal while allowing for changing views as occupants move through the building.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the tower is carefully considered, employing two legs that rise from the site’s corners. These legs meet at the top, forming a central plaza that becomes a gathering space for residents and visitors alike. The northern leg contains public amenities such as retail offices and galleries, while the southern leg is dedicated to working spaces, featuring coworking areas and a library. This design provides a balance between public engagement and private functionality.

Contextual Integration

Positioned at a key intersection between an urban highway and a major avenue, Vórtice plays an important role in the local environment. The tower helps shield nearby residential areas from heavy traffic, enhancing the neighborhood's livability. Pedestrian pathways are carefully integrated to promote easy movement throughout the area, allowing for a convenient link between the tower and its surroundings. The central plaza offers a welcoming space that encourages interaction among people.

Design Details

The building's form is designed to let natural light in while promoting air circulation. The twisting structure features balconies created by the intersecting helicoids, which not only enhance the visual interest but also allow for green spaces within the building. This integration of nature within the architecture highlights a commitment to creating a pleasant and engaging environment, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to urban living.

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

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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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