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| Balikpapan Mayor Rahmad Mas'ud. |
The primary concept is that the city landmark should embody Balikpapan's vision of a modern, liveable, and prosperous city within the context of Madinatul Iman.
To be more precise, the city landmark should embody the concept of a sustainable green city, showcase the city's historical identity, and have a futuristic appearance.
Mr. RM, short code Rahmad Mas'ud, made a special request to the city landmark design competition participants. It was delivered two years ago. October-November 2022, during the competition. The top ten recipients have, of course, been disclosed.
Regrettably, the winners' products were not published. It is only natural to be curious about the winning design of the landmark in Balikpapan. It appears that the competition for the design of the municipal landmark was not finalized.
I was able to locate only three works after conducting an internet search. Two first- and second-place entries, as well as one entry that I am uncertain whether or not it made it into the top 10.
The proprietor of the YouTube channel @fasade23 uploaded a video titled "Indonesia's Capital Gate." City landmark of Balikpapan. The video, which was uploaded on November 22, 2022, explains the first victor in the form of a landmark design for Balikpapan city. The principal architect is identified as Ar. Freddy A Simamora.
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| The fundamental concept of landmark design encompasses four themes: Madinatul Iman, Five-Dimensional City, Meeting Point of Civilisation, and Ruhui Rahayu. |
The fundamental concept of landmark design encompasses four themes: Madinatul Iman, Five-Dimensional City, Meeting Point of Civilisation, and Ruhui Rahayu.
Simamora, a native of Medan, communicates the message that the Balikpapan city landmark is an iconic symbol and the identity of the Balikpapan city community, reestablishing the fundamental connection between humanity, culture, and nature through his design. Local wisdom, historical character, and spiritual value are all present in each of them.
In the Balikpapan City landmark design competition, which the Balikpapan City Government organizes in partnership with the Indonesian Architects Association (IAI) of Balikpapan City, it appears that architects from Medan are the dominant force.
Fasade23 emerged as the second-place victor, with BDStudio Medan trailing behind. The Instagram account @reynazm uploaded the profile of BDStudio Medan, which includes its iconic design.
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| Balikpapan city landmark won second place. |
Three components are prioritized in the landmark design. Initially, the geographical aspect is represented by a sailboat. Secondly, cultural elements in the form of talawang. Third, the historical component of the city is in the guise of Mathilda.
The work of Akhdiat Iqbal Maulana, a youthful architect from Palangka Raya, was another landmark that I discovered. The coroflot.com website contains his architectural portfolio. The concept of Bhumi Manuntung, which encompasses the culture, history, and modernity of Balikpapan, is carried by Akhdiat.
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| Balikpapan city landmark design by Akhdiat Iqbal Maulana. |
Upon viewing the designs of the landmarks in Balikpapan, I can only express one word: Outstanding! I found their designs to be quite enjoyable. I immediately envisioned the city's evolving appearance, which will be even more aesthetically pleasing in the future. Then, hope can be transformed from a mere concept into a tangible actuality.
"From concept to reality," stated Mr. Erkata Yandri, a solar energy practitioner and academic.
Despite the exceptional design, there still needs to be one element. The architects' municipal landmark would be even more impressive if they incorporated a green energy component: photovoltaic.
Balikpapan will acquire an additional predicate: a city that has implemented energy conservation, provided that photovoltaic integration can be applied to landmarks.
Photovoltaic Architecture
Zoheir Haghighi et al. conducted an intriguing investigation into the practical applications of photovoltaic architecture. In 2021, they investigated the manner in which architects perceive photovoltaics.
The visual implications of photovoltaic integration are examined, and it is revealed that architects perceive the integration of photovoltaics into architecture as value-added integration, regardless of the photovoltaic products employed.
Photo voltaic architecture is an art form that integrates solar energy technology with the elegance of architectural design, as explained by J. Owen Lewis in the International Journal of Solar Energy.
Solar panels and other solar energy systems are an essential component of the building design in this art. The structures that are constructed are not only visually appealing, but they are also energy-efficient.
The art of photovoltaic architecture offers architects the opportunity to experiment with innovative and environmentally responsible designs in addition to providing practical benefits in energy generation.
In summary, photovoltaic architecture is a trend, a symbol of visual attractiveness, and a demonstration of dedication to advancing renewable energy technology and environmental conservation.
From Concept to Reality
I would now like to embark on a virtual voyage with you. Examine the integration of photovoltaics into architecture in numerous nations.
These nations have exhibited their dedication to sustainability and innovation in building design. In addition to serving as an energy source, photovoltaic integration is part of a functional and visually appealing design element.
Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany
Berlin Hauptbahnhof is the primary train station in Berlin, and it generates electricity through solar panels on its roof.
Bosco Verticale, Milan, Italy
German architects were responsible for the design of this project, which integrates a vertical garden with solar panels, despite its location in Italy.
La Marjal Park, Alicante, Spain
This park incorporates photovoltaic panels into its structural components and art installations.
America's Federal Building in San Francisco
The structure generates energy requirements by utilizing photovoltaics on its roof and facade.
The Helios House, located in Los Angeles, California, United States
A refueling station that utilizes solar panels as a primary design element to produce energy.
Pixel Building, Melbourne, Australia
This office structure is acknowledged as the most environmentally friendly in Australia due to its utilization of solar panels on its roof and walls.
Solar Valley, Dezhou, China
The city intends to serve as the world's largest solar energy hub, with numerous structures incorporating photovoltaic technology.
Kolkata, India: The Solar Tree
An art installation that also functions as an energy source by utilizing solar panels.
Lyon, France: The Photovoltaic Flower
Kanagawa Institute of Technology, Japan
The building's roof and walls are constructed with photovoltaic glass to generate energy and provide natural illumination.
It is intriguing. Indeed, these office structures, equipped with photovoltaic panels, not only produce the energy required for their operations but also offer distinctive and contemporary aesthetic advantages.
Our city will be recognized as more sustainable and environmentally benign as many buildings in Balikpapan incorporate solar panels into their design.
The discipline of photovoltaic architecture in urban areas is undoubtedly met with challenges. These challenges can be surmounted through innovative and collaborative strategies that involve the government, the private sector, and the community.
Balikpapan will be among the most sustainable cities in the future if all stakeholders reach a consensus. Mr. RM, what do you think? Are you in agreement to press the power pedal? (*)
Our city will be recognized as more sustainable and environmentally benign as many buildings in Balikpapan incorporate solar panels into their design.
The discipline of photovoltaic architecture in urban areas is undoubtedly met with challenges. These challenges can be surmounted through innovative and collaborative strategies that involve the government, the private sector, and the community.
Balikpapan will be among the most sustainable cities in the future if all stakeholders reach a consensus. Mr. RM, what do you think? Are you in agreement to press the power pedal? (*)