Ocean One Tower

Pattaya, Thailand's largest resort destination, is slated to become home to the country's tallest and greenest building: the 327-metre-tall residential Ocean One Tower. According to some reports, the 91-storey condominium will also be contender to the world's tallest residential tower.

Inspiration for the building's design comes from it's seaside location. The architects, international firm Woods Bagot, have attempted to introduce the element of water into the building's design with the use of curved balcony elements set onto a glass facace, which used different coloured layers of laminated glass and varied types of window mullions to reflect the constant movement of water.

Thought the building occupies an urban greenfield site, its small footprint has left some 10,000 square metres of open green space, some of which will be covered by a large glass canopy to house public venues, such as al-fresco dining spots, and retail and recreation establishment. The architecs expect the covered plaza to become a cultural centre of Pattaya, attracting public celebrations and events. For residents, lanscaping is introduced in private gardens on top of the podium deck.

To work around the nearby buildings--some of which are not well-maintained--the first level of the apartment is elevated to allow all units a view of the sea.

Significantly, Ocean One Tower will be the first building in Thailand to follow the goverment's new energy guidelines, setting a new standard in energy-saving. According to Woods Bagot, green building features include measures to recycle 80 percent of consumed water and the installation of sophisticated waste-water-treatment equipment.

Energy will be multi-sourced: solar energy systems will be sufficient to contribute to the Thailand national grid; and additional electricity will be generated from the movement of lifts, especially the high-speed exterior public lift used for the rooftop observation deck. Hot water will be supplied by taping heat from the energy-efficient VRV air-conditioning system (which allows precise room-by-room temperature control). Also, the glazing system for the facade will be selected to minimize solar heat gain and maximize natural light.

Other high-tech features ensure resident safety, including an automated system to closed balconies in high winds.

With construction starting this year, the building is expected to be completed in 2010.–Patida Vorakitnitiphan/Christen Jamar