Overview of the Impressive Structure
In a remarkable feat of engineering and design, Morocco has unveiled its tallest tower, a striking edifice that is not only a testament to modern architecture but also a symbol of the nation's aspirations. Constructed through a collaboration between the Belgian contractor Besix and Casablanca's own TGCC, the building's silhouette is so distinctive that it can be seen from as far away as 50 kilometers, resembling a rocket poised for launch. Spanning an impressive 102,800 square meters, this architectural landmark features a luxurious hotel, a variety of office spaces, upscale residences, and a breathtaking panoramic observation deck, making it a multifaceted hub of activity and leisure.
Innovative Engineering and Sustainability Features
The engineering behind the tower is as impressive as its aesthetic appeal. It is anchored by 60-meter-deep foundations composed of 104 concrete barrettes, ensuring resilience against seismic activities and potential flooding. The building utilizes a sophisticated tube-in-tube structural method, which combines a high-strength inner concrete core with an outer steel frame to effectively distribute loads. To further enhance stability amidst wind and seismic movements, a 160-tonne mass damper system is strategically installed at the pinnacle of the tower. This innovative design not only prioritizes safety but also embraces sustainability; the façade is crafted to minimize solar heat gain, thereby reducing cooling energy demands. Additionally, the podium roof is equipped with 2,200 square meters of photovoltaic panels, while the south façade features another 1,800 square meters of solar panels, contributing to the building's energy efficiency.
Architects Rafael de la Hoz and Hakim Benjelloun played pivotal roles in bringing this vision to life, under the development oversight of O Capital Group. In a forward-thinking move, Besix announced in 2022 the use of an autonomous topographic robot known as the “BIMPrinter” to precisely trace floor plans within the tower. This cutting-edge technology allows for the intricate outlines of partition walls to be directly mapped onto the floor slabs, guided by the building's digital model, thereby streamlining the construction process and enhancing accuracy.
As reported by globalconstructionreview.com.
