When the city of Parramatta held a competition calling for two commercial high rises with an emphasis on energy efficient design, Urban Office Architecture responded with ‘The City Rises’ concept, which fuses two towers to begin as one unified entity and diverge as they rise.

Carlo Enzo’s New York-based office has envisioned the building to serve as an asset to the public realm, extending from Parramatta Square to the north.

Glass boxes at the outermost layer of the structure contain vertical circulation allowing pedestrian access to upper levels. Throughout the ascent, visitors are able to access programmed ‘floating rooms,’ which provide various urban functions.

The building’s specific twisting and projection to the south is prompted by performative efficiency in regards to heat loss/gain and structure. The result simultaneously offers improved interior configurations for office layouts. As the structure rises, offices have a close relationship to public areas, allowing for a healthy and enjoyable working environment.

‘The City Rises’ relates closely to its climatic conditions. Oriented towards the north, black and glass boxes are able to collect and circulate water, light, and solar energy. The curving and aerodynamic form reduces wind loads and sun glare. Multiple layers of glass treated with a photosensitive film lessen the solar gain, while remaining nearly transparent.