GORK JOURNAL

Pisa Tower 2.0

Architecture: Tonkin Liu
Project: Tower of Light and Wall of Energy
Photo: David Valinsky
Location: Manchester, UK


The reference to this iconic architectural monument is no coincidence. It’s the first association that comes to mind when looking at the photographs, and the 2.0 version signifies its technological advancement.

This tower project, pardon the pun, is an example of sustainable architecture. Its primary function is to support and decorate the smokestacks of thermal power plants (a different approach from ours). Despite its modern appearance, the tower seamlessly integrates into the historical urban landscape. Remove it, and an immediate void is felt.

The project’s structure consists of two basic elements:

  1. A wall made of ceramic tiles surrounding the power plant. It reflects light and disperses the city’s noise.
  2. A 40-meter tower made of thin, durable steel sheets. Inside are reflectors that create a movement effect when light hits them. At night, this effect is enhanced by directed artificial lighting.
Architecture Photo