Burj Zanzibar, a 28-storey apartment tower with hybrid timber technology is currently under planning for Zanzibar, an island in the Indian Ocean. Expected to reach a height of 96 meters, the edifice will be the highest timber structure in Africa. Moreover, it will be the tallest green building in the world.
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As the first timber structure of this size in the world, the “vertical green village,” as it is known, would be an iconic landmark for the island and all of Africa, as well as for the environment.
The mixed-use apartment and commercial building were recently unveiled to the public in Muscat. The building’s concept designer, Dutch-born architect Leander Moons, stated that the Burj Zanzibar is an outstanding structure. He said that it also represents a new ecosystem for the future of living.
The project’s location
The 266-unit residential tower will be built in East Africa’s first eco-town, Fumba Town. It was developed by the German-led engineering company CPS. The growing city is close to the capital. Foreigners are allowed to buy, stretches along a 1.5-kilometer seashore on the southwest coast. It is seen as a strategic investment and has the full backing of the Zanzibar government.
Burj Zanzibar is expected to be the highlight and natural continuation of their attempts to create sustainable housing in Africa. It also promotes local employment and businesses. This is according to CPS CEO Sebastian Dietzold.
Zanzibar, with its turquoise seas, white sand beaches, and old Stone Town, which is protected by UNESCO, recently saw a 15% yearly growth in tourists and a 6.8% economic growth.
Earlier this year, the 35 kilometers off the coast of Tanzania’s semi-autonomous archipelago expanded its wings in yet another direction by launching a campaign to draw $6 billion in revenue from African tech companies.
When completed, Burj Zanzibar would be the tallest timber building ever constructed and the first high rise ever in Africa. Recently, the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) certified the 86.6 meters Ascent Tower in Milwaukee, US, as the tallest timber hybrid building in the world.
The 385 meters office tower in Egypt, dubbed “Iconic Tower,” is currently under construction. It will be the highest conventional skyscraper in Africa once complete.
Burj Zanzibar contractors
All vital fire and life safety requirements are met by a steel-reinforced concrete core. A group of top experts from the US, South Africa, Tanzania, Austria, Switzerland, and Austria will carry out the project.
The building’s carbon footprint is further lowered through green roof gardens and planted balconies.
During the launching event, architect Leander Moons said that Burj Zanzibar will be a widely noticeable landmark for Zanzibar and beyond. It would not only be because of its appearance but also for its construction method.
Tanzania’s huge land resources for agroforestry and the ambitious green mega tower are both expected to benefit from the promotion of local, available wood as a building material.
Modern urban trends are combined with local culture in the playful architectural design. This is in resemblance to a beehive with honeycombs.
The lead architect, Moons, stated that panorama windows, enclosed green loggias, and a modular layout would bring out the tower’s green nature. They will also allow for adaptable apartment floor plans. The floor plans will be designed for any cultural preferences. Even on the top floor, residents can have their own outdoor garden.
The building has a blend of studio, one, two, and deluxe penthouse apartments, representing a young, vibrant, and above all sustainable living.
The tower is located on a terraced podium with stores, public and private gardens, and a pool.
The units prices
The sizes of the units range from studios priced at $79,900 to a large penthouse with a private pool on the 26th floor at $950,880.
According to CPS director Sebastian Dietzold, Burj Zanzibar will set a new standard for construction in the 21st century.
