These skyscrapers are taking “green design” to the next level

Eco-friendly seems to be somewhat of requirement now in the production of materials. Designers, architects and contractors are working together and making strides in sustainable materials and structures. The latest comes to you by way of Milan and has been coined a “vertical forest”. Already garnering some attention from Emporis Skyscraper Awards, the twin structures at 256 feet and 344 feet high towers utilize more than 700 trees and 90 different species of plants on various balconies and other outer facades.

Architect, Stefano Boeri, engineered the concept of these upright green towers to redefine approaches towards urban scenery, stating on his site, “It is a model of vertical densification of nature within the city that operates in relation to policies for reforestation and naturalization of large urban and metropolitan borders.” In addition to exemplifying the true beauty of having a dueling towers of foliage in middle of a hustling borough, the design is also capitalizing on some incredible benefits. Centrally located areas like these are naturally also heavily polluted with air-toxins. All of this plant life helps actually reduce the smog and promote healthier respiration. Solid structures like these building are also ideal to reduce noise pollution with the constant noise of cars and traffic reverberating up the skyscrapers. The greenery also helps regulate temperatures inside the office, shading the units in the summer from harmful UV rays, while still allowing sunlight in colder season to warm up the areas.

The most fascinating feature in the design of these staggering towers is in their irrigation systems. That’s right, all precipitation in the city of Milan will be utilized to help water and sustain this vertical forest. Boeri designed an irrigation system that capitalizes on every drop of water from outside the building and inside and then transferring it to the plant life. This system of reusing gently used water from inside building’s sinks, tubs and washing machines is called grey water and is also becoming a trend in buildings infrastructures.