The future of man-made islands and ground-breaking architecture is officially here! In the span of one month, we’ve been introduced to two new architectural wonders that would have knocked our forefathers off their feet. On opposite ends of the world, two gigantic floating islands are rising to the top of tourists’ bucket lists.
Just last month, New York City’s Hudson River debuted Little Island, nicknamed Diller Island after billionaire donor Barry Diller, whose $260 million donation made the island possible and the West Side of New York City a charming masterpiece. Strategically designed by Thomas Heatherwick, the island floats on 280 concrete pilings and 132 concrete ‘tulips,’ one of the most eye-catching elements of its design, above the Hudson river. It features a lush public park that’s serene and mental health boasting atmosphere perfectly contrast the fast-paced city. The park includes three main lawns, a secret garden and performance amphitheater for visitors to relax and enjoy. Locals say the new spot is in such high demand, you have to book an appointment to walk the island weeks in advance. We’ll help you book a flight, but we can’t help you schedule a walk…yet.
Mirroring this new island is a project in the works off the coast of China’s Shenzhen’s Qianhai District. Architectural designer, Sou Fujimoto thought-up an impressive and mind-blowing design when answering the question ‘how can a tower evolve while continuing to attract attention, as the Eiffel tower does?’ The dynamic tower, which appears as a cloud in the sky with falling water, is set to raise 268 meters high and house 99 islands connected to a main center core. From below, the islands will appear to float in the sky. The center of the structure overlooks the surrounding islands and features a lookout, exhibition space, restaurant, and café. The concept is already an award-winning design that will attract people from all over the world and is said to symbolize ‘the future of society in an age of diversity’. Its vision will set the tone for what lies ahead in architectural design. Photos of Sou Fujimoto’s manmade islands were released to the public this month.
New York City’s Little Island and Sou Fujimoto’s similarly planned floating islands are two mind-blowing landmarks on different sides of the world that are worth the visit.
Which island will make it on your bucket list?