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| DESIGN DETAILS |
DESIGN NAME:
Spira Silva
PRIMARY FUNCTION:
Mixed Use
INSPIRATION:
Several years ago, the designers had the opportunity to visit a timber factory in Spokane, where they became deeply intrigued by the potential of timber construction. While timber structures are rare in New York, timber high-rises are even more so. They sought to challenge this norm by envisioning something entirely innovative, pushing CLT construction beyond traditional stacking methods. Their goal was to create expressive, sustainable, and unconventional high-rises, fostering a connection to nature, akin to living within a giant tree.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Unlike traditional timber buildings, the project utilizes twisted CLT panels as its primary structure members, creating a dynamic architectural language while maintaining structural efficiency. Tthe interior spaces vary across floors, offering open layouts, enclosed areas, and adaptable configurations for different functions. The design fosters warmth, vitality, and a sense of belonging to occupants.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION:
Spira Silva fosters dynamic interaction between occupants and space. Its twisted CLT structure creates flexible interior layouts, offering varying spatial experiences from open to enclosed areas. The design encourages natural light and airflow through strategically placed apertures, enhancing occupant comfort. Adaptive spaces support diverse activities, from collaborative work to private retreats. The building's sustainability and versatility improve occupant well-being and energy efficiency, delivering a more engaging urban environment.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION:
This design started in 2023. The building is situated in the waterfront district of Williamsburg, right adjacent to Domino Park and Williamsburg Bridge.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY:
Architecture, Building and Structure Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY:
The project integrates innovative CLT construction with advanced digital modeling techniques. The twisting structure is achieved by programming the CLT panels to create dynamic forms that balance both aesthetic and structural efficiency. The use of parametric design tools enabled the creation of complex, fluid geometries, while sustainable materials were prioritized to reduce the carbon footprint.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES:
typical CLT wall panel: 12'-6" x 14'-0" x 1'-0 3/8"
typical glulam column: 1'-6" x 1'-0"
typical CLT floor panel: 14'-0" x 24'-0" x 1'-0 3/8"
wood-look metal panel: 4'-0" x 12'-0" x 0'-2"
TAGS:
twisted CLT construction, innovative structure, sustainable high-rise, dynamic spatial design, urban timber, eco-conscious design, iconic landmark
RESEARCH ABSTRACT:
The designers came across a project uses CLT panels with varying moisture levels to self-shape into twisted forms, reducing energy use and material waste while enabling complex, sustainable designs. They see this potential in pushing CLT construction beyond conventional stacking methods, allowing for the creation of expressive, sustainable and unconventional high-rises, which can foster warmth, vitality, and a sense of belonging for occupants.
CHALLENGE:
The deisgners utilized paramatric design tool and structural anaylsis tool to evaluate the structural feasibilty and efficiency of our design iterations. Daylight analysis tool is used to adjust twisting effect of building elements.
ADDED DATE:
2025-02-27 17:50:46
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
Hao Zhong, Yuchen Qiu
IMAGE CREDITS:
Hao Zhong, Yuchen Qiu
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| COMMENTS |
| Giulia Esposito |
Comment #103957 on June 20, 2025, 3:39 pm |
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I am thoroughly impressed and inspired by the exceptional creativity and innovation showcased in the "Spira Silva" project, which beautifully redefines the possibilities of timber construction in high-rise architecture. The intelligent utilization of twisted Cross-Laminated Timber panels exemplifies a daring yet harmonious exploration into dynamic structural forms, creating an architectural expression that is both visually captivating and structurally efficient. Moreover, the thoughtful integration of adaptable interior spaces, fostering warmth and a profound connection to nature, is a testament to the designers' deep sensitivity toward occupant experience and sustainable living. The meticulous application of parametric design tools and advanced digital modeling techniques further highlights the impressive attention to detail and rigorous analytical process underpinning the work. This remarkable achievement not only challenges conventional methods but also sets a visionary precedent for the future of sustainable mixed-use architecture. My heartfelt admiration goes to Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu for their outstanding contribution to Architecture, Building and Structure Design.
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| Chloe Turner |
Comment #104542 on June 20, 2025, 8:32 pm |
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I am truly inspired by the visionary approach behind "Spira Silva," a remarkable achievement in architecture that thoughtfully explores the full potential of timber construction. The innovative departure from traditional stacking methods to create expressive and sustainable high-rise structures is genuinely commendable, offering occupants a unique experience reminiscent of dwelling within a majestic tree. The conscious effort to reconnect urban living with nature through unconventional design is not only refreshing but also profoundly meaningful, enriching the architectural landscape with creativity, sustainability, and a deeper human connection. Witnessing the recognition of this outstanding work fills me with appreciation and admiration for the designers' exceptional talent and ambition, exemplified exquisitely by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu.
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| Paul Phillips |
Comment #104889 on June 20, 2025, 11:25 pm |
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I am truly inspired by the innovative approach presented in Spira Silva, particularly the remarkable use of twisted CLT panels as primary structural elements, which beautifully combines dynamic architectural expression with structural functionality. The thoughtful variation of interior spaces across different floors, providing areas ranging from open layouts to enclosed and adaptable configurations, clearly demonstrates a deep consideration for occupant experience and diverse functional needs. Furthermore, the overall design effectively fosters warmth, vitality, and a genuine sense of belonging, qualities that are essential for any successful mixed-use building. Witnessing such creativity and sensitivity in architectural design is genuinely exciting, and I am genuinely delighted to see this outstanding work recognized with the prestigious A' Design Award, a commendable achievement by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu.
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| Thomas Anderson |
Comment #105022 on June 21, 2025, 12:33 am |
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I am incredibly impressed by the innovative approach presented in the "Spira Silva" project, particularly the bold use of twisted CLT panels as primary structural elements, creating a distinctive and visually compelling architectural language that maintains remarkable structural efficiency. The thoughtful consideration given to interior spaces, offering diverse layouts and adaptable configurations, reflects a profound understanding of occupant needs, successfully nurturing warmth, vitality, and a genuine sense of belonging. Furthermore, I deeply admire the inspiration drawn from the designers' visit to a timber factory in Spokane, leading to a visionary reimagining of timber high-rise construction in a city where such structures remain rare. The ambition to transcend traditional stacking methods and craft expressive, sustainable high-rises reminiscent of living within a majestic tree exemplifies exceptional creativity and forward-thinking design philosophy. This remarkable achievement is truly deserving of recognition and sets a powerful precedent for the future of timber architecture, thanks to the inspiring vision and dedication displayed by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu.
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| Elisabeth Clark |
Comment #105609 on June 21, 2025, 5:27 am |
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I am genuinely impressed by the remarkable creativity and innovation displayed by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu in their award-winning project "Spira Silva." The meticulous employment of twisted CLT panels as primary structural elements not only establishes a compelling and dynamic architectural expression but also embodies a thoughtful commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Furthermore, the designers' imaginative approach in transcending conventional timber construction methods to achieve expressive, sustainable, and unconventional high-rise buildings evokes a profound sense of admiration. The varied interior spaces, thoughtfully designed to foster warmth, vitality, and a sense of belonging, clearly illustrate a deep understanding of the occupants' emotional and functional needs. Additionally, the insightful research into self-shaping CLT panels to reduce energy consumption and material waste demonstrates a commendable dedication to environmentally responsible design practices. I feel truly inspired by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu's exceptional work, which undoubtedly sets a high standard within the field of architecture, building, and structural design.
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| Adam Harris |
Comment #106152 on June 21, 2025, 9:59 am |
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The innovative approach demonstrated in "Spira Silva" exemplifies a remarkable leap forward in timber construction, where the integration of twisted CLT panels as primary structural members introduces a dynamic visual language and structural ingenuity to the field of Architecture, Building and Structure Design. I deeply appreciate the thoughtful consideration given to interior spatial diversity, where varying configurations across floors provide adaptable, welcoming environments tailored to occupant needs, fostering warmth and a genuine sense of community. Furthermore, the visionary inspiration drawn from exploring timber factories and boldly challenging conventional norms in high-rise design speaks volumes about the designers' commitment to sustainable and expressive architecture. The meticulous research into self-shaping CLT panels with varying moisture levels highlights the project's dedication to environmental responsibility, material efficiency, and architectural innovation. Additionally, the strategic use of parametric design and structural analysis tools to ensure feasibility, efficiency, and optimal daylighting further underlines the project's sophistication and attention to detail, making "Spira Silva" a truly deserving recipient of the prestigious A' Design Award.
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| Paul Williams |
Comment #106472 on June 21, 2025, 12:39 pm |
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Spira Silva stands out as a remarkable achievement in the field of architecture, building, and structure design, embodying a harmonious blend of innovation, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. The use of twisted CLT panels to craft dynamic and expressive forms sets the work apart from traditional timber construction, offering not only visual intrigue but also structural efficiency and versatility of interior space. I particularly admire how the innovative application of parametric and structural analysis tools has enabled the creation of fluid yet functional geometries, thoughtfully balancing daylight accessibility and occupant comfort. The inspiration drawn from the designers' experience at a Spokane timber factory, combined with in-depth research into moisture-induced self-shaping techniques, reflects an admirable dedication to sustainability and the exploration of timber's untapped potential in high-rise structures. Through the successful integration of advanced digital modeling and sustainable materials, Spira Silva undoubtedly exemplifies excellence in contemporary design, deserving every recognition bestowed by the prestigious A' Design Award.
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| Victoria Hill |
Comment #106600 on June 21, 2025, 1:43 pm |
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Spira Silva exemplifies an extraordinary synthesis of innovative structural expression and sustainable design principles, setting a remarkable benchmark for mixed-use architecture. The thoughtful integration of twisted CLT panels as primary structural elements generates a uniquely dynamic architectural language, enhancing both aesthetic beauty and structural efficiency. I greatly admire how the designers have boldly challenged conventional timber construction methods, embracing advanced parametric modeling and digital analysis tools to craft a building that promotes warmth, vitality, and community connection. Furthermore, the careful consideration of adaptable interior spaces demonstrates a commendable commitment to occupant comfort and versatility. The meticulous research and inspiration drawn from natural forms elevate the project, creating an inspiring dialogue between built form and environment, reminiscent of inhabiting a majestic tree. My sincere appreciation goes to Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu for their visionary approach and exceptional execution, deservedly earning the prestigious Platinum A' Design Award for Architecture, Building and Structure Design.
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| Mark Allen |
Comment #107140 on June 21, 2025, 6:17 pm |
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The award-winning work "Spira Silva" is truly remarkable, showcasing an innovative approach to timber construction through the expressive use of twisted CLT panels, which creates a dynamic architectural language while remaining structurally efficient. The thoughtful integration of varying interior spaces across different floors, coupled with sustainable design principles, brilliantly fosters a sense of warmth, vitality, and belonging among occupants. Furthermore, the utilization of advanced digital modeling, parametric design techniques, and daylight analysis demonstrates a commendable commitment to achieving both aesthetic excellence and environmental responsibility. The resultant structure, evoking the organic essence of living within a giant tree, represents not only pioneering architecture but also a visionary step forward in sustainable urban development. Congratulations on receiving the esteemed A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design Category; this recognition is indeed well-deserved.
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| Elena Petrenko |
Comment #107475 on June 21, 2025, 9:19 pm |
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The innovative use of twisted CLT panels in Spira Silva beautifully merges structural ingenuity with organic aesthetics, creating an inspiring vision for sustainable high-rise architecture.
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| Valentina Rossi |
Comment #107586 on June 21, 2025, 10:15 pm |
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The project's innovative use of twisted CLT panels creates an impressive architectural expression that beautifully blends dynamic form with structural efficiency. This thoughtful approach fosters an inviting and sustainable environment, skillfully connecting occupants with nature in an urban context.
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| Patricia Miller |
Comment #107707 on June 21, 2025, 11:15 pm |
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Spira Silva masterfully showcases an innovative approach to timber construction by elegantly combining dynamic twisted CLT panels with sustainable design principles, creating a vibrant, inviting, and nature-inspired architectural experience.
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| Anna Ivanova |
Comment #107760 on June 21, 2025, 11:42 pm |
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I am deeply impressed by the exceptional architectural vision and meticulous execution displayed in "Spira Silva" by Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu, a truly deserving recipient of the prestigious A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design category; the ingenuity and elegance showcased in the Mixed Use development reflect a profound understanding of spatial harmony and purposeful innovation, and I sincerely commend the remarkable excellence of Hao Zhong and Yuchen Qiu's notable achievement.
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