The Concept of Vertical Cities
The worldwide trends are gravitating towards cities full of
opportunities and robust potentials. As a result of this unusually increased
focus on the cities, urban sprawling is on the rise. The immense pressure
on cities to fulfill the accommodation needs of an expanding population is
increasing. There is a limit to horizontal growth of the cities; Vertical
growth is the only option left, then. To cater to the residential needs of
expanding population, the only solution is for vertical development of
buildings.
What is a Vertical City?
A series of interlinking vertically proceeding building
floors that offer environmentally friendly and self-sustaining spaces for
occupants. Vertical buildings are a mark of luxury and a step towards
energy-efficient cities. A mechanism to preserve horizontal spaces for nature,
recreation, and food production.
Engineering Marvel: The Burj Khalifa
Without a doubt, one of the most impressive feats of
construction in history is the recently constructed Burj Khalifa in Downtown
Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The government of Dubai wanted to reduce the
reliance on the oil trade by creating a spectacle for increased tourism revenue,
create a staple of Dubai that will gain and attract major awareness, and bring
the title of ‘tallest building in the world’ back to the United Arab Emirates.
The building is used for offices, residential areas, hotels, restaurants,
observation decks, and communication. Fun fact: The Burj Khalifa was inspired
by the Empire State Building when the ruler of Dubai visited New York City in
the 1960s.
Designed by Adrian Smith, a world-renowned architect from
Chicago, the foundational design of the Burj Khalifa began in 2004. The
building was designed with a shamrock-shaped base for maximum support as well
as ultimate viewing potential from the inside. Samsung Construction was
contracted for the job and after the foundational construction was done, the
building started to rise in 2005. The building grew at an exceptional rate of
30 floors in less than a year and was picking up even more speed. In September
2007, while still growing quickly, the new skyscraper surpassed the CN Tower,
taking the title of the largest free-standing structure in the world. By late
2009, the Burj Khalif was complete and stands a mind-blowing 2,719 feet tall,
costing a total of $1.5 billion. The height of the building, the design, and
the speed at which it was constructed easily earn it a spot on our list of the
most incredible feats of construction in history.
Engr. Shoaib Rauf
Project Manager
Aventus Properties
Email: shoaib.rauf@aventuspk.com