designboom_a finalist in zagreb‘s observation tower design competition, superspace has imagined ‘ascencion’ for the city’s novi zagreb district. considering the current burgeoning status of the area, the project has been developed with the intention of connecting the history of the croatian capital with its future. the concept also proposes a vertical forest to forge a dialogue between nature and the built environment, with the aim of ultimately forming a new landmark, or gateway, on the skyline.
situated in the heart of zagreb, in prime position between the new and old city, ‘ascencion’ is imagined by superspace as an urban gateway. primarily functioning as an observation tower, the positioning of the intervention garners views far and wide – from the immediate architectural history of the built environment to the wooded landscape of the mountains in the north. with the context in mind, the shape of the proposed form has been designed to consider the existing architecture of zagreb, while incorporating a high degree of transparency, creating a visual connection through and funnelling the flow of pedestrians.
the tower is envisioned as a timber construction, or so called ‘wooden skyscraper’, with the natural material forming a ‘shell’ of warmth. to break up the verticality of the architectural expression, a series of curved terraces articulate the structure. reached via stairs or an elevator, the platforms intend to provide an ideal way to see the city from above. spotted with trees, the proposal also connects people to nature, resulting in an ‘aerial forest’ within the urban context of zagreb.
