The battle for designing and building the world tallest building continues in major cities around the world. Their designs vary, but still none look much like this new concept for the world’s longest—not tallest—building. Could “The Big Bend” skyscraper be the next notable addition to New York City’s skyline?
Image Source: amNEWYORK
Building Long Rather Than Tall
Architect Ioannis Oikonomou, the founder of Oiio Studio, has proposed a unique-looking residential building that, instead of shooting up into the clouds, would bend back down to ground level. The aptly dubbed “Big Bend” could potentially qualify as the world’s longest building, measuring 1219 across its complete length.
The “Big Bend” would house mostly luxury condos. Concept drawings show the inverted U-shaped building at West 57th Street—sometimes know as “Billionaires’ Row”—standing on either side of the Calvary Baptist Church.
If built, it could stand among the soon-to-be-completed One57, the Central Park Tower, which is set to be the city’s tallest residential tower at 472 meters in height.
A New Mega-Tall Building?
By focusing on length rather than just height, Oikonomou is doing more than just proposing a notable architectural design but is making his own comment on the trend of the super-thin, super tall skyscraper designs that allow developers to capitalize on NYC’s tight plots and zoning laws.
Even with a claim to impressive length rather than height, the “Big Bend” would still qualify as one of the world’s mega-tall buildings—a rank reserved for buildings over 600 meters high.
Not All New Yorkers Are Excited
While the concept is novel, some critics are concerned with how the “Big Bend” and other skyscraper building trends could be defying the spirit of the city rather than adding to it.
Locals have reportedly expressed concerns on how these huge, luxury structures are overshadowing historic NYC points like Central Park. Others have said these buildings only come to symbolize inequality in the city.
What do you think about the “Big Bend” as a concept and potential addition to New York City?
Would you like to see it added to the skyline?
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