This project attempts to tackle the challenge of ‘Zero Energy’ through passive design strategies.

As urbanization and internal migration to existing cities has been on the increase, resi- dential high-rise typology has become the norm in many countries. Although this typology has been used for almost a century, its energy performance has not evolved to a level that matched the environmental concerns. The repetitive approach driven by maximizingprofit and relying mostly on machine-based conditioned space, has led to generic and anonymous solutions that can be placed in any given site.

To what extent do site specific factors influence the design of structures, form, function and performance in a 60 story high rise tower?

Environmental factors have not played a critical role in shaping the design of such buildings. As net zero energy buildings and communities are becoming mandated by many countries, the demand on understanding the environmental factors affecting such design is increasing. Simultaneously, user expectations transcend physical space needs.Comfort, flexibility, energy and carbon performance as well as environmental legacy are all attributes of standard of living and quality of place - in this case: home.