Call it responsibility or accountability. Or simple popular demand. The rarefied world of design is embracing the environment as never before. Top architects are implementing revolutionary methods. Fashion and furniture mainstays are manufacturing products using sustainable materials. And luxury empires are establishing credos on issues their customers are still waking up to. Behind the scenes, trailblazing executives are taking big risks to make it all happen — beautifully.
Shanghai; Gensler
When completed in 2014, the Shanghai Tower will be the tallest building in China. It will be encased in two spiraling façade layers, between which will be a series of air-quality-enhancing, garden-filled atriums. The tower's spiraling design reduces wind load, and the parapet collects rainwater, to be used for heating and cooling systems.
gensler.com
