The Coolest Green Building Yet Is Shaped Like A Volcano

Science fiction comes alive in Moscow

This news is over a month old — which in blog time is ancient — but I couldn’t help share with those of you that perhaps like me only just saw this incredible structure. Dubbed “Crystal Island” and located in Moscow, Russia, it will be the world’s largest building when completed; able to house over 30,000 people. I say “when completed” because permission has already been granted to start construction on this futuristic, Utopian-like structure. Here are some of the incredible statsvia Inhabitat:

Floor area alone will be four times the size of Pentagon in Washington DC. The incredible 1500 ft. tall multi use structure will feature 900 apartments, 3000 hotel rooms, an international school for 500 students, cinemas, a theater, sports complex and much more. There will also be a 16,500 space underground parking lot for all the visitors. The Crystal Island visitors will be able to enjoy panoramic views of Moscow on the viewing platforms located 980 ft. above ground.

Of course, it goes without saying that this building will also feature a dazzling array of sustainable elements. The exterior will be solar responsive and include photovoltaic panels, as well as wind turbines. Special attention will be paid to allow natural light to flood the inside of the structure; as well as proper ventilation thanks to strategically placed atriums. On-site energy generation facilities and carbon reduction tech will also be included.

All we can say is: incredible. For more photos, hit Inhabitat or visit the official site over at Fosters + Partners.