THE FOREST

This high density development due to the prevailing rules governing built-up area necessitated a vertical tower since the ratio of built-up area permissible is 9 times the plot area. The vertical circulation core is planned on the southern side to mitigate heat gain and simultaneously provide privacy to the existing residential 15 storeyed buildings on the southern side. The offices are all oriented towards the north and north-west with the best views of the Congo River as well as reducing the heat gain by allowing natural indirect light to the office spaces.

Situated in the pretext of Congo River, the building shape provides peripheral glazing surfaces orienting towards the river. Capturing maximum river views at the shortest distance, the balconies are aligned and projected radially from the offices.The concept thread is drawn from the African forest creating a structure that replicates a dense tree via parabolic balconies that embark upon the building façade. The angled balconies overlap at subsequent floors providing double and single height balcony spaces for every office.The building shape with its projecting decks allow integration of open spaces with enclosed ones. The form generated by the blend of building shape and balconies create a parametric envelope of repetitive cascading elements developing a unique identity.
The building shape with its projecting decks allow integration of open spaces with enclosed ones. The form generated by the blend of building shape and balconies create a parametric envelope of repetitive cascading elements developing a unique identity.

THE FOREST by SANJAY PURI ARCHITECTS in Congo, Democratic Republic of the won the WA Award Cycle 43. Please find below the WA Award poster for this project.