SOM designs skyscraper with "exposed structure" for downtown

American architecture studio SOM has designed a skyscraper in Downtown Miami defined by two expansive terraces and an "exposed structure".

Located in Miami's Brickell neighborhood, 848 Brickell will rise 51 storeys and host office and retail space, as well as a restaurant and fitness centre across 750,000 square feet (69,680 square metres).

Renderings show three volumes divided by two expansive public terraces, one on top of the base of the tower and the other about halfway up, covered by the 23rd floor.

An "exposed structure" wraps around the building's facade, with angled support beams framing the outdoor spaces.

"Continuing SOM's legacy of high-rise innovation and multi-disciplinary design, one of 848 Brickell's defining features is its exposed structure," said the team.

"Angled structural members heroically raise the tower above two distinct 40-foot tall outdoor terraces," it continued.

A series of rectangular glass volumes, each spanning four to five stories, are affixed to either end of the tower and will contain private terraces for tenants on their topmost floor.

The building's base, which is shown clad in metallic panels, will contain a double-height lobby, a restaurant and 7,000 square feet (650 square metres) of retail space.

A fitness centre and conference rooms will be located in an enclosed glass volume on the first public terrace, which will also contain outdoor sports courts, a cafe and landscaping.

A total of 37,100 square feet (3,446 square metres) of office space will be located throughout the building, while a public rooftop sits at the top, protected by a screen structure.

Some passive strategies to create energy efficiency are planned for the design, including louvres along the building's east facade and "high-performance insulating glass" used to clad the building.

Additionally, its outdoor space encourages a "healthy and productive working environment", according to the team.

Co-developed by local firm Key International and Chicago-based Sterling Bay, the project aims to take advantage of a growing market for high-end office space in the city.

"848 Brickell was conceptualized to capture the growing market for high-end office space in Miami with its expressive structure and wellness-focused programming," said the team.

"Designed to reflect the city's culture and environment, the building is informed by the surrounding climate and driven by a vision for an innovative, resilient workplace with best-in-class amenities," it continued.

As of now, there are no set dates for construction of the project.

It joins a number of skyscrapers recently unveiled for the Brickell neighbourhood, including Dolce & Gabbana residences designed in collaboration with New York-based practice Studio Sofield and Mercedes-Benz' first US residential skyscraper by SHoP Architects.

The images are courtesy of SOM.

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