When livable space becomes scarce in densely populated cities, builders tend to move upward with high-rises and skyscrapers. But could the same concept be applied to outdoor recreational and green areas? For the Shanghai-based firm 100architects, that’s precisely the plan. Vertical Times is a concept park that would rise six levels into the sky. Welcoming locals and visitors, the proposed space would feature individual zones that include a carousel playground and ball pool for children, a hammock lounge and sky garden for adults seeking relaxation, and a restaurant and sky bar for those looking for a little more activity.
100architects’ proposal targets New York’s Times Square, which sees roughly 400,000 visitors every day. “Vertical Times takes a different approach to the design of public space,” the firm said in a statement. “It means that parks would no longer need to be built on a large horizontal extension of land, but rather a multilayered structure with a softer impact on land consumption, while establishing a highly recognizable landmark in the city.”
A view of the top floors, which would be occupied by a restaurant and sky bar.
Vertical Times would measure 40 feet in diameter and 180 feet tall, while each level would be 1,215 square feet. Built using a combination of concrete and steel, the structure would be reinforced with a central column, which would also hold an elevator. Additionally, each platform would be supported by radial steel beams, while external tensors would reduce vibrations caused by visitors. Because only the center structural shaft would touch the ground, the structure’s footprint would be small, leaving the space below open to pedestrians. As it stands, Vertical Times is still a proposal with no immediate plans of being built.
