The Botanic Center apartment block in Brussels, named after the nearby botanical gardens, is plant-centric in name only, but that could all change if a proposal from Vincent Callebaut, a Belgian proponent of sustainable architecture, moves forward.
According to NewAtlas.com, Callebaut’s concept, called the Botanic Center Bloom, would leave the original 1970s-era concrete structure in place, but calls for the installation of 274 planter beds into the existing façade. These beds would then be filled with around 10,000 plants, all specially chosen by botanists.
These plants would be drip-fed and require maintenance about twice a year. Additionally, the windows and other fittings would need to be upgraded. These changes would likely result in about 50 tons of CO2 being captured every year and increased thermal performance for the building as a whole.
The addition of the plants would offer a significant change to the current building, but another large change would be even more eye-catching. A new structure, dubbed the Chrysalis, would be built from timber and steel on top of the building to serve as retail, residential, commercial, or mixed-use space.
On top of the Chrysalis are a large solar panel array and 42 wind turbines that will produce an estimated 128,340 KWh/year. The project is currently in the design phase with no information as to its likelihood of progressing.
Rendering courtesy of Vincent Callebaut Architectures
Rendering courtesy of Vincent Callebaut Architectures
Rendering courtesy of Vincent Callebaut Architectures
Rendering courtesy of Vincent Callebaut Architectures
Related Stories
Green | Feb 15, 2024
FEMA issues guidance on funding for net zero buildings
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently unveiled new guidance on additional assistance funding for net zero buildings. The funding is available for implementing net-zero energy projects with a tie to disaster recovery or mitigation.
Sustainability | Feb 7, 2024
9 states pledge to accelerate transition to clean residential buildings
States from coast to coast have signed a joint agreement to accelerate the transition to pollution-free residential buildings by significantly expanding heat pump sales to meet heating, cooling, and water heating demand in coming years.
Industry Research | Jan 31, 2024
ASID identifies 11 design trends coming in 2024
The Trends Outlook Report by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) is the first of a three-part outlook series on interior design. This design trends report demonstrates the importance of connection and authenticity.
Concrete | Jan 12, 2024
Sustainable concrete reduces carbon emissions by at least 30%
Designed by Holcim, a building materials supplier, ECOPact offers a sustainable concrete alternative that not only meets, but exceeds the properties of standard concrete.
Sustainability | Jan 10, 2024
New passive house partnership allows lower cost financing for developers
The new partnership between PACE Equity and Phius allows commercial passive house projects to be automatically eligible for CIRRUS Low Carbon financing.
Green | Jan 8, 2024
DOE releases RFI on developing national definition for a Zero Emissions Building
The Department of Energy released a Request for Information (RFI) for feedback from industry, academia, research laboratories, government agencies, and other stakeholders on a draft national definition for a Zero Emissions Building.
Sustainability | Jan 2, 2024
Los Angeles has plan to improve stormwater capture and source 80% of water locally
Los Angeles County’s Board of Supervisors voted for a plan to improve stormwater capture with a goal of capturing it for local reuse. The plan aims to increase the local water supply by 580,000 acre-feet per year by 2045.
Sustainability | Dec 22, 2023
WSP unveils scenario-planning online game
WSP has released a scenario-planning online game to help organizations achieve sustainable development goals while expanding awareness about climate change.
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2023
ASHRAE releases guide on grid interactivity in the decarbonization process
A guide focusing on the critical role of grid interactivity in building decarbonization was recently published by ASHRAE. The Grid-Interactive Buildings for Decarbonization: Design and Operation Resource Guide provides information on maximizing carbon reduction through buildings’ interaction with the electric power grid.
Sustainable Design and Construction | Dec 14, 2023
Suffolk Construction establishes Suffolk Sustainability Group
Design veterans Steven Burke and Michael Swenson will lead the new sustainability initiative for Suffolk.