The new underwater skyscraper development will bring scientists and vacationers together to understand the ocean, without polluting its delicate ecosystem. As a skyscraper is an economical method of reducing humankind’s footprint on land, Gyre goes a step further by juxtaposing that footprint to the ocean, which is considered as one of its ‘greenest’ feature.
The underwater skyscraper’s unique design permits the simultaneous application of wind, solar and tidal energy generation technologies thereby making it truly ‘off-grid’. Peaking at a depth of 400 meter, the tower features ample space to provide for a comfortable living and working environment, including space for shops, restaurants, gardens, and recreation.
The center piece of the design features a double-hulled vortex with both hulls being clad in reinforced glass, where each of the floor levels is essentially a layering of concentric rings ranging in size from 30,000 square meter down to 600 square meter. The first two levels of the Gyre’s vortex are dedicated to circulation, community gatherings, restaurants and commerce. Intermediate levels accommodate long-term residents, oceanic experts, hotel guests and crew quarters totaling as many as 2000 people. The deepest levels are dedicated to a scientific observatory for oceanographic research and an Interpretive Center for public discovery of the depths of the ocean.
In addition to using vertical axis wind turbines, electrical energy is also collected by solar means. The skyscraper will be able to manage undersea pressures and stresses thanks to its unique shape. Rainwater is harvested in the inner vortex and gravity fed to the water purification system at the base of the Gyre. Mechanical systems and emergency freshwater storage basins are in the deepest portion of the structure.
This new underwater tower design by Zigloo is a conceptual floating development and heralds a new class of eco-tourism.
