vertical times by 100architects offers alternative to public recreation

vertical times by 100architects offers alternative to public recreation
all images courtesy of 100architects

questions of urban planning in regards to the rapidly densifying urban environments of the world is not a new subject. for decades, architects of all levels have offered methods — from the far-out to the ingenious — of how to most effectively organize and optimize the modern city. shanghai-based firm 100architects, in their latest conceptual work ‘vertical times’, focuses attention on what they believe to be the most obvious way forward: vertical density.

multiplied public space

of course, vertical expansion is a ubiquitous architectural practice. a quick look at the unbelievable height of cityscapes around the world is testament to this. however, ‘vertical times’ — theoretically located in NYC’s times square — offers the concept not as a work or living environment, but as the potential future of public recreation space; albeit it with commercial components, it’s not going to pay for itself!

the proposal frees valuable space on the ground plane, not impacting the area’s intense foot traffic 

the multi-layered structure is comprised of six pods, organized vertically up to a height of 55meters (approx. 180′). such organization will drastically reduce the amount of horizontal space typically reserved for recreation, while establishing another highly recognizable landmark that only minimally alters foot traffic below.

an attraction for residents and tourists alike  

‘vertical times’ is planned as follows. the first two platforms (closest to ground level), would feature recreation areas dedicated to children’s activities, such as a ball pit or playground. located above is a hammock plaza — I can only imagine the drastic measures required to secure a spot — followed by a sky garden in the fourth pod. finally, the top two will host a restaurant and sky bar, which are the concept’s commercial components.

stacked capsules 

in total, ‘vertical times’ includes six distinct areas in a structure that occupies just 113m². a single column is the only structural element that directly affects ground level traffic, and its shape fits much better with its urban surroundings. ‘vertical times’ was designed by 100architects. 

restaurant and sky bar with 360º views of times square

programmatic capsules 

typical cityscape

scarce available land  

multiplying public space

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions  feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom