BIG’s Twisting Vancouver High-Rise is Lined with Vertical Gardens That Filter Vehicle Emissions

<a href="http://www.big.dk" target="_blank">BIG Architecture</a> has proposed a twisting high-rise to join Vancouver’s skyline, right next to the <a href="http://inhabitat.com/plans-unveiled-for-bigs-twisting-residential-skyscraper-in-vancouver/" target="_blank">Granville Street Bridge</a>. The new design will not only transform currently disused space, but will also help filter vehicle emissions coming off the road. Called 'Beach and Howe' the 49-story mixed-use tower will offer residents unique triangular green roof gardens on each level and beautiful views out to the city. The new structure will mark the gateway to downtown Vancouver, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/groundbreaking-park-royal-tower-is-draped-with-curtains-of-greenery-in-singapore/" target="_blank">meshing architecture with green space</a> for sustainable urban living.

The soaring tower would welcome 600 residential units for new downtown dwellers. The apartments would be set on a large nine story mixed use base, which will feature retailers, commercial space, restaurants and other amenities for residents to enjoy.

The base also creates a buffer between Granville Street Bridge traffic and the residential sector of the building, lifting apartment <a href="http://inhabitat.com/oasia-downtown-by-woha-places-tropics-in-the-heart-of-singapore/" target="_blank">balconies and gardens</a> up and away from emissions and noise.

The base is also position away from the bridge, to further ensure privacy. Its triangular shape creates a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/unit-fusions-moveable-modules-could-be-the-future-neighborhoods-of-hong-kong/" target="_blank">small footprint for the expansive building</a>.

Compared to New York’s Flatiron Building, the unique triangular shape allows not only for maximum living with a small base, but also the opportunity to create a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/plantagon-breaks-ground-on-its-first-plantscraper-vertical-farm-in-sweden/" target="_blank">multitude of green roofs</a>- one for each floor.

Each ascending floor cantilevers over the next, creating an elevated outdoor space that will be planted with lush grasses and trees.

The green spaces create a <a href="http://inhabitat.com/ryue-nishiziwas-gorgeous-vertical-garden-house-grows-in-tokyo/" target="_blank">vertical park that infuses greenery</a> in the otherwise disused space next to the bridge. The green roofs also benefit residents by giving them private park space, and save energy by insulating the floors below, as well as filter rainwater naturally.

The plants also act as a natural air filter, helping to purify the pollution caused by bridge traffic.

The building encapsulates the idea of future living, combining vertical living, green space and sustainable technology. The building is shooting for LEED Gold Certification.