Verticity Chicago

The point of departure for VertiCity consisted of two apartment towers on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in 1952. The twin towers are counted among the first residential high-rises worldwide. We chose these steel skeletons sas the vertical “foundations” of our urban strategy because of their clear and minimalistic structure.
The texture of the interspace between the two monolithic towers is loosened to incorporate terraces, balconies and loggias, bordering on bridge-like walkways and public spaces.
The integral structures were optimized for several objectives using an iterative algorithm:
All objectives share the trait that they can be described numerically. Therefore, a “fitness value” can be determined for each criterion. The overall fitness of each solution is determined automatically by a function that incorporates all fitness values with different weights. The fitness of a large number of randomly generated variants can be calculated rapidly. These variants are improved by means of selection, recombination and mutation, i.e. principles borrowed from evolution, in an iterative process until the overall fitness of the building has been maximized. The results exhibit a high degree of irregularity. A range of optimized solutions emerges from the complex interplay of different modular components and functions.
Individual modules within the integral structure that were disadvantaged in terms of lighting or view were reallocated for collective forms of use: this is where cafés, bars, indoor playgrounds, yoga centers, communal kitchens or libraries could be situated.
To improve weather resistance at great heights, a second membrane was spread across the vertexes of the inserted structures. The permeability of the membrane varies with structural and climatic requirements. Numerous bridges and ramps form walkways between the public spaces, lead to recreational facilities and bear lush, park-like vegetation. Combined with the private gardens and balconies, they form a vertical landscape, a recreational area at the residents’ doorstep and green spaces that enhance their living environment.