Kayak architects wants to change how we get around cities – so they’ve developed a solar-powered Skystation to transform the roofs of skyscrapers into air travel hubs. To illustrate how it would work, the designers envisioned a drone Skystation on Trump World Tower in New York City.
The Skystation project aims to convert skyscraper rooftops into air transport hubs with a low ecological footprint. This futuristic transportation network should reduce pollution by eliminating rush-hour traffic and decreasing number of land vehicles, enabling us to turn unused roads into walkable, green spaces.
Related: Dubai plans to launch autonomous flying drone taxis by mid-2017
Drone robots programmed or operated by humans would build these lightweight structures out of prefabricated and 3d-printed elements, using materials and components produced by local companies. A layer of sprayed Perovskite Solar Cells covers the outer shell, providing clean energy for the entire station.
Related: Titan Aerospace Developing World’s First Solar-Powered Atmospheric Satellite Drones
Arched roofs are meant to allow easier and more convenient landing for drones, simultaneously creating distinct architecture that dominates the city skyline. An existing art gallery, located underneath the drone platform, is transformed and integrated with the new lobby to give users the opportunity to experience art while waiting for the transport. This space can also function as a restaurant, entertainment area or lounge. Kayak Architects designed the project as a proposal for the Lafarge Holcim Competition.
Images by ELEMENT
