A key issue of apartment towers in high density urban environments is the excess use of artificial light and ventilated air which makes the residents’ exposure to natural light and air minimal. This problem is especially important for the Wanamaker Building for its large and horizontal envelope. Situated in the urban center of Philadelphia, the Wanamaker building’s façades are severely shaded by the tall towers that surround it. This project reimagines the Wanamaker building as a vessel for natural elements by hollowing the building interior. Vertical landscapes draw natural light, air, and vegetation into the building while preserving its historic façades and atrium due to its architectural and historical significance.
The central atrium provided the opportunity to deliver natural light and air into floor areas using hollowed spaces in addition to windows on the façade. Inspired by William Penn's masterplan for Philadelphia, four residential towers were designed surrounding the central atrium. The remaining space of the building is hollowed creating a large interior void space that reduces the tension of high-density collective living environments. This allows residents to be exposed to natural light and air even in the center of the floor area. The open-air environment also brings the opportunity for vertical landscapes and shared community gardens that occur on each floor encouraging community interactions while enhancing residents' exposure to optimal natural elements.
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