The renderings for the fourth and final World Trade Centre Tower have been revealed to the public, with firm Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) taking over the design reigns.
Chief Executive CBRE New York Mary Ann Tighe said, “They liked the idea of a more integrated workplace, where the space flows more easily and people are more likely to collide and collaborate.”
In an interview with Wired, BIG’s Bjarke Ingels said, “The first thing James said to me is he didn’t want to build a tower.”
And so Ingels’ seven building stacked design was born.
The concept divides the skyscraper into seven boxes, each around 12 levels, stacked like toy blocks. Ingels described it as “seven different buildings stacked on top of each other”.
The stepped 2 WTC tower will rise 1,340 feet, making it one of Manhattan’s tallest buildings. The blocks will gradually get smaller as the building rises, creating ‘set backs’ where Ingels has designed gardens for each block. The winding staircases set against the glass exteriors will ensure that all companies feel connected with each having stunning views of the city.
Extremely pleased with the modern open placed design, 21st Century Fox and News Corp. have reportedly signed a non-binding tenancy agreement to occupy the lower and largest two blocks of the 2.8 million square-foot tower.
While Murdoch and WTC owner Larry Silverstein were thrilled with the new designs, Ingels addressed the pressure of designing a modern iconic building all while being respectful of the events that occurred in 2001.
Speaking with Wired, Ingels said, “We have tried to incorporate that duality.”
“On one hand it’s about being respectful and about completing the frame around the memorial, and on the other hand it’s about revitalising downtown Manhattan and making it a lively place to live and work.”