Mobius Tower – Landscape In The Air | Architecture Thesis

Site Context

The project started out as a design without a specified site. Nevertheless, taking into account the building’s prime location at 2 Murray Road in the heart of the business district of Hong Kong, the design cleverly takes advantage of this and turns the structure into a major hub for commerce. Through a spiral circulation, people are drawn in by the lower retail floors that extend outward. Like a layer of lasagna blending into its surroundings, the tower blends in with its surroundings seamlessly.

Design Process

The project aims to question the conventional, rigid post-and-slab constructions that draw inspiration from Le Corbusier’s Domino House. Using the most readily available material—paper—the testing phase was initiated.

Four folded pieces of paper cuts were eventually used to construct a modular shell system. Erwin Hauer’s sculpture modules served as an inspiration for this design, which emphasises repetition and continuity. The initial prototype of the skyscraper was assembled from these modules.

The different combinations of intermediate slabs further transformed the modular shell system. A variety of programmes and working conditions are introduced by spatial evolution. An activity-based working environment is supported by the variety of spaces available, which implies that employees can work wherever in the office best fits their current tasks. This strategy encourages human mobility and spatial flexibility.

Final Outcome

The Mobius Tower redefined the structural system, envisioned new vertical connections, and introduced an innovative spatial experience, challenging the traditional flat-slab configuration found in high-rise buildings. Connecting curved floor plates creates spatial continuity, which is illustrated through conceptual drawings, diagrams, and most importantly, a variety of models in different scales.

The initial repeated modules were split up into distinct office units with distinct functions and layouts. A closer look reveals a variety of headrooms, slopes, and connections that all contribute to the landscape while maintaining the original structural system and using the same language. Vertical fluidity is encouraged by the nearly seamless connections between the slabs, which allow people to access other floors through ramps.

Conclusion: An innovative concept of a landscape in the air is created by this transformation, which seamlessly combines several levels into one large area. This changes the perception of the built environment and its technology in addition to reimagining modern urban settings.

[This Academic Project has been published with text submitted by the student]