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Foster + Partners released details of their latest skyscraper for the City of London. Tulip is designed to be a "new public cultural attraction" adjacent to another London landmark, The Gherkin: one of the most iconic buildings in Foster and London.

Named after its natural inspiration, the 305-metre-tall, bud-like architectural scheme will provide educational facilities operated by the construction owner J. Safra Group. The project provides 20,000 free places for children in London's public schools every year, featuring "an unparalleled vantage point overlooking London from an altitude of about 300 meters".

The scenic spot designed by the project has a new two-storey entrance pavilion to enhance the existing ground floor of The Gherkin, with public roof terraces, retail stores and 284 bicycle parking spaces. The new sunken park will be situated next to the pavilion. With the help of two green walls, the green surface area of the site will be increased by 8.5 times.

The 300-metre-high viewing gallery will provide visitors with fascinating experiences, including overpasses, internal glass slides and cable car pods on the facade of the building, while air bars and restaurants will provide 360-degree urban landscape. Tourists will also benefit from "interactive materials and briefings on expert guides on London's history".

The project continues the pioneering design of 30 St Mary Axe and embodies the spirit of London as a progressive and visionary city. It provides enormous benefits for Londoners and tourists. As a cultural and social landmark, it provides incomparable educational resources for future generations. - Foster + Partners founder, Norman Foster said.

The scheme will consist of a high strength concrete shaft with a steel frame viewing platform and high performance glass windows. The project aims at BREEAM excellent rating, with environmental characteristics, such as extra 130 square meters of Plaza space, two green walls and system technology, which can save 42% of carbon, reduce 48% of water through 100% circulating water irrigation, and 284 bicycle parking spaces.

An application for the design scheme of the project has been submitted. If approved, construction will start in 2020 and be completed by 2025.

Architect: Foster + Partners

Location: London