Δ Tower
The notion of the “Δ Tower”, is to acquire the role of a “landmark” for the city of Nicosia. In our opinion, to be a “landmark” is to be distinct and imposing. The “Δ Tower” embraces this role with its sharp angular facade, bold character and dynamic movement.
Architect: Elina Kritikou - Kenzo Yamashita
Design Team: Alexandros Kkoufou, Petros Stavrakis
Client: Nice Day Developers
Type: Competition
Location: Nicosia - Cyprus
Design: 2019
With an efficient plan organization and volume arrangement, the “Δ Tower” (pronounced Delta Tower, derived from the 4th Greek letter delta) occupies the proposed site as efficiently as possible, prioritizing the assets of the plot. The ensured views are taken into consideration in the initial arrangement and configuration of the apartments, following a simple and efficient layout.
Core Strategic Arrangement
The core is strategically located at the back of the plot. This ensures maximum unobstructed views to the city as the apartments are positioned along the main road. Since the core is situated at the midpoint of the plot boundary, less area is wasted for the need of corridors, as the apartments are accessible directly from the core lobby. Less circulation translates into more spacious apartments. The tower consists of two cores, with one of them connecting the parking basements with the rest of the floors and as a means of fire escape.
Ηaving a quite narrow shape, the challenging plot is mostly occupied to satisfy the required building density. The form of the building is as simple and straight-forward as possible, minimizing any wasted space and irregular shapes. With the core strategically located at the mid-point of the back side of the plot and the apartments situated along the main road, we ensure maximum unobstructed views to the city, while less area is wasted for the need of corridors. Less circulation translates into more spacious apartments.
Distribution of the Apartments
Vertical Circulation
Core Layout
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While the form of the building and the layout of the plan is as simple and efficient as possible, what gives the “Δ Tower” its identity is the angular form of the facade. The facade, shaped by the form of the protruding verandas and vertical louvers, promotes multi-orientated views, directing the focus of the spectator towards various point-references in the city.
Axonometric Detail
White concrete and white aluminium louvers form the envelope of the building, keeping a minimal, contemporary character. Wood is also incorporated in the design, adding warmth and colour to the interior and covered verandas. Greenery placed behind the vertical louvers translate the white elements into growing green walls, bringing nature into the interior and fostering a sense of harmony.
Very few selected materials are used, to complement the playful angular facade. The materials and colour tones are very carefully chosen to achieve a simplistic, light, yet warm atmosphere.
The interior of the apartments are also dominated by the same simplistic style, and have finishes in rich, natural woods, as well as marble. The combination of white, cold elements, as well as natural materials that radiate luxury, give a contemporary yet luxurious character.
The White Aluminium louvers give privacy to the apartments and contribute to the playfulness of the facade. The alternating orientation of these louvers creates an image which is perceived differently as one walks around of the tower, creating opaque and transparent segments.
