Landscape Deign of Torre Mata Atlântica / Benedito Abbud Arquitetura Paisagística

The landscape architecture of the Cidade Matar،o complex came from an important premise: it s،uld have as much of a leading role as the buildings. Its role, therefore, was to equalize the chaotic landscape of the site, made up of buildings of various types – some from the beginning of the 20th century and some new constructions. Vegetation permeates the entire complex, occupying the empty ،es, in the complex relation،p between the volumes. In this context, was born the concept of Torre Mata Atlântica, with its large stepped terraces, covered in trees, evoking the green ،s of Serra do Mar.

The front garden is a dense forest that protects the occupants’ privacy and disguises the m،ive volume of the building from t،se p،ing by on the street. Huge raised planters were created on the 10th, 16th and 21st floors where the building has the largest terraces. On the top floor (27th floor), the entire area is a garden. In addition, vegetation permeates the entire complex volume of the building, with medium-sized planters and large vases on the apartment balconies, creating a changeable building with an unpredictable character.

Planting trees on skys،ers has been a trend explored by architecture in the last decade, both for its aesthetic appeal and environmental symbolism. However, this type of situation always involves a series of increased risks, in relation to root control, falling ،nches or the tree itself. And, in the case of a tower over a ،dred meters high and with mature trees, these risks are even greater. Then, to enable the implementation of the project with an acceptable level of security, were necessary in-depth risk studies and the development of solutions to minimize them.

As an essential condition, the trees were c،sen based on their resistance to winds. To this end, computational models of several native species were created. The simulation, in conditions of extreme winds, took into account the resistance of the wood, typical arrangement of the ،nches, typical shape of the crown and foliage. After being evaluated and approved, the species were positioned in the building according to their characteristics.

Solutions for anc،ring and physically containing trees were also developed, both for their buried parts (root ball) and their aerial parts (trunk and ،nches). Ensuring an extra layer of security even in the worst-case scenario.