Conceptual competitions are always interesting, proving an insight into where we believe architecture is going and a way to stretch the limits of space, construction, and design. The winning design by DSBA upgrade.studio for the international conceptual competition for a new skyscraper in Taiwan is an original concept of floating observation decks. The architects were inspired by the shape of the Taiwan island resembling a leaf and created a metaphoric structure extending from that idea. The result is a technological tree with eight spatial leaves that slide up and down the centric tree, with the entire structure containing various functions such as an information center, museum, office spaces, conference rooms, restaurants, and observations decks.
Courtesy of DSBA
According to the architects, their design is unique because of the minimal parcel requirements and offers enough green spaces. Besides, that vertical communications are integrated and it takes advantage of natural ventilation. The building is powered by electric energy produced by a series of axial turbines situated along the vertical center of the tree and the heating system of the floating observation decks is powered by an electromagnetic field while the electricity is created by new membrane technology. Other things that were considered in the concept design is the lighting of the underground spaces and museum through the use of a fiber optic system and being able to collect rainwater in an underground tank where it could be purified and reused.
Courtesy of DSBA
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Kristin Hoover is an editor at Arch2O and a proud graduate of Virginia Tech. Since joining in July 2014, she has authored over 200 insightful articles covering everything from adaptive reuse and cultural centers to eco-buildings and urban infrastructure . With a passion for architectural storytelling, Kristin skillfully curates and crafts compelling narratives that bring design innovation to life. Her editorial work reflects a broad yet finely honed interest in how architecture intersects with society, technology, and the environment—making her a key voice shaping Arch2O’s explorations of contemporary built form.