Twin skyscrapers appear to partially collapse in China

Two Oasis Towers designed by Dutch architecture firm MVRDV are planned to be built in Nanjing, with large amounts of greenery .

Oasis Towers is a residential and commercial complex with a design inspired by nature. The two 150m-high buildings are designed to resemble cliffs covered in greenery. However, at first glance, they look like they have partially collapsed, the Mail reported on May 1.

Unique design of two Oasis Towers buildings in Nanjing, China. (Photo: MVRDV)

Between the two 40-story L-shaped buildings is a park-like 'green space' open to the public. Below the Oasis Towers is a subway station. Shops and businesses are located on the first to third floors, with residential areas above.

Each tower has two formal 'grid' facades, similar to traditional office buildings, the design team said. However, the other facades feature curvaceous balconies and terraces. The staggered balconies are designed to bring in plenty of natural light, while greenery is present on all floors, providing additional shade during hot weather.

The Oasis Towers are designed with sustainability in mind . The roof is densely planted with a variety of species, maximizing biodiversity. It also features 500 square meters of reed beds that naturally filter and clean water, contributing to the grey water recycling system (domestic wastewater, such as water from bathing and washing). The two buildings are also equipped with a water-based heat pump, taking advantage of the nearby river to reduce energy consumption.

'Nanjing's contemporary architecture is inspired by nature in terms of shape and appearance. With Oasis Towers, we wanted to push this trend to the extreme – not only mimicking nature with its curving, layered 'cliffs', but also integrating nature into the design with greenery and taking advantage of natural processes ,' said architect Winy Maas, co-founder of MVRDV.

The project completion date has not been announced. According to MVRDV's latest announcement, the project is in the design development phase.