
Dubai's famous skyline would be forever changed if this ambitious proposal by experimental architecture firm ZNera Space were to be commissioned. The design, known as Downtown Circle, offers a three-kilometer-wide, five-story-high ring to wrap around the world's tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, 550 meters above street level.

ZNera Space believes the concept would add dynamism to Dubai's skyline, while also demonstrating future-proofing technology such as smog filters and green energy to power air conditioning systems.

Principal architects Najmus Chowdry and Nils Remess say it was intended as a "conversation starter" and the design's focus on sustainability, community, and multi-functional space is epitomized by the greenbelt that would run through the entire structure. Known as the Skypark, it would be a space for exercising, relaxing, and growing fruits and vegetables.

The concept is future-facing and includes a green commute within the Circle, an electric tram system, and also infrastructure to allow the residents access to sky taxis such as Uber Elevate.

The Skypark would encourage more sustainable living by providing a cool, green space where residents of the Downtown Circle could walk from their homes to their places of work, and to entertainment and leisure venues -- all without having to step outside into the often unbearable heat.

The structure would contain luxury apartments, offices, leisure and cultural facilities, retail and dining spaces. The elevated community is designed to fulfill all the needs of its residents.

Some critics have argued that the structure would take away from the beauty of the existing skyline and the architectural brilliance of the Burj Khalifa, but Chowdry and Remess say that it will "add to the verticality" of the cityscape.

ZNera Space hopes that its radical concept will start a discussion about the way we build, especially in densely populated urban areas.


