The PETROLEUM TOWER

Prominent and contemporary in style, the proposed GNPC New Corporate edifice, affectionately nicked named, the “Petroleum Tower” proudly stands as a symbol of new found natural wealth, as a symbol of aspiration and strong promise for the people of Ghana. This tower of “layers” takes its inspiration from the layers of life which are traversed before the precious black gold is found. A silhouette of glass behind these layers of fair faced concrete slabs, represents a vial of the precious liquid. The choice of concrete is in consonance with the natural layers of sediments where oil is discovered. Employing this inspired use of generous concrete overhangs, direct solar ingress is prevented from entering the internal spaces on the facades that face strong solar action whilst allowing more glazing in areas of least solar incidence. A Podium, and a Tower incasing a glass vial. define the form of this project The first of these, the Podium, acts as a natural concert base punctured triangularly to reveal the glazing of the access points. The second is the Glass Tower; a “glass vial” emerging from layers slashed from an oblong of 40m by 60m over a height of 75m ,seated on the Podium. Finally, the centre of the glass vial unfolds a magnificent Atrium ,bringing alive the indoor spaces, natural ventilation and light to minimize the energy demands for cooling the edifice.