Uber has announced eight architecture firms to design future skyports for its first three cities, and, at its third annual Elevate Summit, the companies showcased leading concepts.
“This year, we invited innovative architectural firms to imagine how connected Skyport hubs could be integrated into the urban landscape of Los Angeles, Dallas and Melbourne,” said John Badalamenti, Uber’s head of design for Elevate. “These designs represent a synergy of purpose, orchestrating a seamless transition between ground transit like Uber Pool and eVTOL aircraft on the roof tarmac – all while contributing to the surrounding neighborhood.
Here are the rideshare giant’s favorite pitches from each firm.
Los Angeles, California
“CITYSPACE” by Gensler, Los Angeles
“Arc” by SHoP Architects, Los Angeles
“SkyPark” by Mithun, Los Angeles
Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas
“CONNECT | EVOLVED” by Corgan, Dallas
“Volary” by Humphreys & Partners, Dallas
“Dallas Skyport” by The Beck Group, Dallas
“Urban Re-Vision” by BOKA Powell, Dallas
Melbourne, Australia
“Sky Loft” by Pickard Chilton and Arup, Melbourne
Of the above concepts, The Beck Group’s Dallas vision and Pickard Chilton and Arup’s collaborations for Melbourne would be retrofits to existing structures — a seven-story parking structure in Dallas and a sustainable, timber-heavy add-on in Melbourne. The rest, would be new construction.
In addition to designs from architecture firms, Uber has also signed with a real estate partner in both Los Angeles and Dallas to aid in the development and construction of the first two Skyports, as well as a company to operate them.
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