Water Tower, Rio Olympics 2016

In 2016 Rio de Janeiro are hosting the Summer Olympics. Zurique Architects have proposed a vertical structure that acts as an observation tower and also as a substantial landmark/ welcome sign for the visitors flying in. The structure is proposed to be situated on Copacabana Island, just off the mainland and in full view the Copacabana beach. The design stores solar energy throughout the day to pump sea water up to the top which then falls as a large wall of water. The force of this falling water is also utilized within the design to turn turbines and produce power to allow the system to function at night. The structure has been called Solo City Tower and includes a Café, ampitheatre, auditorium, shops etc. Bungee jumping is also proposed from a special platform from the top. The idea of a falling wall of constant water is a powerful image, and designed to this height it would be seen from miles around. However i don’t feel the specific design of its form is sensitive at all to the Natural island its proposed on. The modern style and finish seems to hold no character suggestive of its native location, this design could be placed within many modern cities and hold no real relevance to its environment, which I find disappointing for such a major landmark to a great city. At the very least this proposal should be saying something about Rio's culture and approach to life, not wholly conforming to a seemingly global modern and sleek design style. It should be saying 'Welcome to Rio, Brazil'  not just simply 'welcome to a destination'. Images and text sourced from 'http://inhabitat.com/solar-city-tower-for-rio-olympics-giant-energy-generating-waterfall/'