MAD architects: absolute towers - under construction

construction of the 'absolute towers' by MAD architects
image courtesy MAD architects

the 'absolute towers' by MAD architects is currently under construction, due to be complete in 2011.
also nicknamed marilyn monroe by the locals, the project was the firm's first international
winning project back in 2006, giving them worldwide attention.
 


construction of the 'absolute towers'
image courtesy MAD architects

located in mississauga, a suburb of toronto, canada the towers will be a landmark for the area.
the building is more than just a functional machine: it responds to the significance of being located
at the junction of two main streets, elegantly bearing its status and acting as a gateway to the
city beyond.



construction nearing completion
image courtesy MAD architects



the windows being added to the facade
image courtesy MAD architects


despite its landmark status, the emphasis is not solely on height. MAD's design features
a continuous balcony that surrounds the whole building, eliminating the vertical barriers
traditionally used in high rise architecture. the entire building rotates by different degrees
at different levels, corresponding with the surrounding scenery. their aim is to provide
360 degree views for each residential unit, and to get city dwellers in touch with the natural
elements and reawaken their appreciation of nature.



construction in progress



the beginning processes of construction
image courtesy MAD architects



model of the 'absolute towers' in MAD's headquarters in beijing
image © designboom



model of the 'absolute towers' in MAD's headquarters in beijing
image © designboom



model detail of the 'absolute towers'



how the 'absolute towers' will look once complete



how the 'absolute towers' will look once complete



rendering of 'absolute towers'



rendering of 'absolute towers'  at night


project info:
year won 2006
location: mississauga, toronto, canada
typology: residential apartments
tower a: 45,000 sqm, 56 stories/ 170 m
tower b: 40,000 sqm, 50 stories/ 150 m
status: under construction
associate architects: burka architects inc.
structural engineer: sigmund, soudack & associates inc.
mechanical engineer: ece group
electrical engineer: ece group
landscape architect: nak design
interior designer: esqape design