‘engineered biotopes’ by anthi grapsa and konstantinos chalaris all images courtesy of anthi grapsa and konstantinos chalaris

london-based architects anthi grapsa and konstantinos chalaris‘s design proposal for the ‘piraeus tower 2010’ competition incorporates plant nurseries into the skin of the abandoned tower. the brief called for a new interpretation of what a facade can be and do.

at only 2 squared meter of green space per person, ‘engineered biotopes’ recognizes the lack of open green space in the city of piraeus. the design uses modern agricultural techniques in the construction of the tower, essentially becoming a vertical park for not just the inhabitants but the dwindling species of birds and wild flora. the first two stories accommodate a grid of glass tubes that nurture seedlings. from a distance, this portion of the tower provides a shimmering effect, reflecting light onto nearby streets. from floors 3-22, a system of small biotopes house small vegetation along the surface of the facade. depending on the weather conditions, each individual modules can be re-positioned by a robotic crane to optimize on sunlight and water consumption. this continual activity on the tower’s facade creates an urban choreography that establishes a dynamic relationship to the piraeus port where containers and ships are constantly reconfigured.

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes view of the tower in context

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes detail of the biotope mechanism

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes elevation

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes roof plan

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes section

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes diagram

anthi grapsa + konstantinos chalaris: engineered biotopes the tower’s position