SHoP Architects to create world's tallest "hybrid timber" tower in Sydney

New York City-based SHoP Architects and Australian technology company Atlassian have unveiled plans for a 40-story tall timber and steel tower slated for a new business-technology district in Sydney, Australia.  The 280-foot tower will be wrapped with a diagrid steel tube and staggered glass envelope that is set to include solar panels embedded within some of the frames. The designers of the project, CNBC reports, aim to run the building entirely on renewable energy and are projecting energy use levels at 50% below conventional new-build projects.  This loose-fitting envelope will encase a rhythmic arrangement of staggered floor plates and internal gardens that run up the height of the tower. The building's stepped top will also featured staggered terraces populated by trees. BVN Architecture is serving as Architect of Record on the project, which is scheduled to break ground next year with estimated completion in 2025.