Archi Union prove it CAN be done with sustainable mixed-use 'Can Cube' design
The Can Cube is an innovative mixed use residential and office building, located in Shanghai, which utilises several ecological and renewable systems, allowing it to be highly efficient and sustainable. The entrance level and below-ground level are both occupied by office space, whilst levels two and three are recreational and private living quarters.
At the entrance is a gradually recessed garden, leading to the basement level. A bridge connects the foot of the garden to the first floor level. Can Cube's façade is a system of aluminium carbonated drinks cans which are enclosed in an aluminium frame. The façade saves the energy wasted during recycling processes by reusing the cans in their current form, without the need for recycling or further processes. Enclosing them in an aluminium frame keeps the structure light and easily adjustable by its occupants.
Window-sash type sections within the façade provide the user with full control of sunlight/daylight in all seasons. The façade works alongside underground heating and cooling devices, rainwater filtration and solar energy systems, which all provide more efficiency and minimise the wastage of energy. Archi Union Architects INC is a multidisciplinary architecture and planning studio in Shanghai and is headed by Professor Philip F. Yuan.
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