A groundbreaking underwater skyscraper, the ‘Ocean Lungs Skyscraper,’ designed by a team of Egyptian architects and engineers, has won third place at the prestigious 2024 Evolo Skyscraper Competition. The innovative project stands out for its eco-conscious design, aimed at combating ocean acidification and supporting marine life.

The competition, organized by Evolo magazine, celebrates visionary concepts in high-rise architecture. Since its inception in 2006, the annual event has recognized some of the most innovative designs that challenge traditional notions of skyscraper construction.

The ‘Ocean Lungs Skyscraper’ consists of a 1-kilometer-deep structure submerged beneath the ocean, made up of sphere-shaped expandable segments. Its key feature is a microporous membrane that filters excess CO2 from the ocean while nurturing coral growth with a foundation made of eco-friendly concrete infused with aragonite, a vital component of coral skeletons.

Designed by ten Egyptian architects and engineers, including Mohamed Noeman Coutry and AbdelRahman Mahmoud Badawy, the project harnesses renewable energy sources like solar and tidal power to create a self-sustaining system. The skyscraper not only provides a sanctuary for marine life but also serves as a platform for ongoing scientific research, offering real-time data on marine ecosystems.

The ‘Ocean Lungs Skyscraper’ exemplifies the potential for human innovation to positively impact the environment, offering a glimpse into a future where architecture and nature work in harmony.

Photography: eVolo 2024 Skyscraper Competition