TOWER OF GAIA

In 2020, we had the incredible opportunity to design the Tower of Gaia for the Urban Confluence Silicon Valley competition—a global call to create an iconic landmark that advances humanity in the world’s innovation hub.

With the Tower of Gaia, we wanted to redefine the concept of a tower, transforming it into a symbol of unity, sustainability, and interconnectedness. Inspired by Jame Lovelock’s Gaia theory, which views the earth as a self-regulating organism, our design serves as a beacon of inclusivity and regeneration—a reminder that we’re all in this together.

The tower’s digitally generated timber structure celebrates environmental innovation with a net-zero carbon approach. Timber construction, which stores 1 tonne of CO₂ per cubic metre, can reduce emissions by up to 75% compared to traditional materials, making it a game-changer for sustainable architecture.

Key features of the tower include vertical organic farming, a self-sufficient restaurant, and lush greenery, creating an immersive and educational experience for visitors. Offering panoramic views of Silicon Valley, the Tower of Gaia invites everyone to experience a harmonious balance between nature and technology.

One side of the tower resembles an X chromosome—a molecule found in the DNA of many living species, symbolizing inclusivity. We see this design as a homage to the Eiffel Tower, but with a modern twist that reflects the forward-thinking, environmentally conscious spirit of Silicon Valley.

The Tower of Gaia is an exemplary beacon of net-zero carbon design. Our self-sufficient restaurant grows organic food within the structure itself, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Silicon Valley. Lush flora integrated throughout the tower forms an educational journey, and visitors can ascend through intricate staircases or an exciting lift that follows the curvature of the building.

We designed Gaia with a regenerative approach, incorporating life cycle and waste management systems that actively sequester carbon to offset the tower’s embodied emissions. Gaia generates enough energy to operate and support vertical hydroponic farms, setting a new standard for beyond zero-carbon architecture.