Via 57 West Tower Is One Of World's Most Eco-Friendly Buildings

Standing along the side of the Hudson River is the new dramatically-shaped Via 57 West that takes luxury to a whole new level. Designed by Denmark-born architect Bjarke Ingels, this stunning triangular residential tower features an expansive green oasis at the center. With construction work nearing completion, the building is gearing up to welcome its first tenants next month.

Described as a “a hybrid between the European perimeter block and a traditional Manhattan high-rise”, the 80,000 sq m (around 861,000 sq ft) structure boasts the compactness of a modern courtyard building as well as the spaciousness of a towering skyscraper. The building’s three low-lying corners lends it a unique pyramid-like shape that in turn helps optimize the availability of natural lighting in the rooms, while also offering breathtaking views of the surrounding riverscape.

Via 57 West’s differently angled slopes creates an incredibly innovative design that blends seamlessly with the low-rise structures to its south and also, the high-rise buildings to the west and north. The tower was erected with an eye on sustainability, aimed at promoting low-impact, green living among its residents. According to the developers, it is “centered around the four core elements of water, energy, air and earth”. In addition to minimizing water usage, the building features advanced technologies that recycle wastewater for reuse, enhancing its quality along the way.

Furthermore, kitchen and bathroom in each of the residences is equipped with special plumbing fittings, as well as energy-efficienct washer and dryer. An on-site rainwater harvesting system collects more than 60,000 gal (or 273,000 l) of water, which is then treated inside a specialized filtering chamber. To reduce energy wastage, the apartments are fitted with energy-saving appliances, low-power digital thermostats and advanced hybrid heat pump systems. LED lighting illuminate the residences and the amenity areas, and come fitted with special motion sensors.

As the team points out, Via 57 West was constructed using eco-friendly materials that lower off-gassing, while also ensuring good air quality by reducing indoor levels of harmful organic compounds. Apart from using cradle-to-cradle certified products, the architects also worked with sustainably-forested wood. The building’s spectacular stainless steel facade, the developers claim, is completely recyclable. What is more, a special collection program is intended to automatically compost occupants’ organic trash, and send electronics, plastic and paper waste for recycling.

Erected in keeping with “biophilic principles”, the structure allows residents to interact with nature, thus creating a harmonious relation between the two. For instance, the central part of the building houses a 22,000 sq ft (approx. 2,044 sq m) courtyard, featuring indigenous plants and as many as 43 full-grown trees. Each of the 709 residences follows one of 178 different floor-plans. Lining the houses along their sides are huge bay windows and stunning floor-to-ceiling glazing, which together with expansive terraces provide beguiling views of the surrounding landscape.

Residents of Via 57 West will have round-the-clock access to lounges, a games room, a party area, a library, a well-equipped screening room and a play space for children. Additionally, there will be a swimming pool, a fitness center, a gym, exercise studios, golf simulator, indoor basketball court and many other facilities. Occupants will be able to make use of a packing service, 24/7 concierge service as well as dry cleaning service. During their free time, they can participate in arts and crafts workshops, food and drink events, cooking classes and so on.

The building, which is yet to be completed, will welcome its first tenants next month. According to the developers, construction works will continue for a couple of months.