Korean architectural studio GDS Architects has received the order for the 450 meter (1,476 ft) high Tower Infinity design. To be built near the Incheon International Airport, Tower Infinity will become the 'world's first invisible tower' and third highest observation deck.
Article continues below
Instead of symbolizing prominence as another of the world’s tallest and best towers, our solution aims to provide the world's first invisible tower, showcasing innovative Korean technology while encouraging a more global narrative in the process," says GDS Design Principal, Charles Wee.
Tower Infinity's "invisible" facade will be equipped with a complex LED system and 18 weatherproof optical cameras, giving pedestrians and passerbyers at certain points the impression that the tower is invisible. The architects have confirmed that the tower has been designed so as to remain visible to birds and air traffic.
"The tower poses absolutely no risk to planes with its use of flashing red lights and the fact that all planes will approach the nearby Incheon airport through standard approach corridors," Michael Collins, Director at GDS told Gizmag.
The tower will feature a series of steel support braces, while also being divided into 28 meter (92 ft) long triangular modules. The final result is a glass encased facade with a series of striking angular diamond shapes.
Working alongside structural engineer King-Le Chang, the architects allowed for strategically positioned open-air sections within the tower's structure in an effort to reduce the effects of wind load. GDS Architects original competition entry also included room for photovoltaic cells, a wind turbine and access to geothermal energy.
The tower's interior facilities include a range of visitor attractions which will be stretched across the numerous levels. These include a theater, Sky-Walk garden, restaurants, cafes and bars, plus the soaring outdoor viewing roof deck located 397 meters (1,302 ft) above the ground. ■