ETH Zurich and Gramazio Kohler Research have unveiled Semiramis, a sculptural installation at the entrance to Switzerland’s burgeoning technology cluster, Zug. This vertical garden, which is brought to life by robots and artificial intelligence, goes beyond conventional ideas of urban design and transforms itself into a tribute to the fusion of nature and technology.
Semiramis is a demonstration of the harmonious collaboration between interactive computer design, machine learning and digital fabrication. Standing at an impressive height of 22.5 metres, the structure consists of five organic wooden pods gracefully suspended from eight slender steel columns. The vertical landscaping concept within the pods was designed and implemented by Müller Illien Landscape Architects GmbH. The pagoda-like pods will not be accessible to people, allowing nature to grow undisturbed. Our only chance to admire the new, living and changing ecosystem is to host or pass by. For now, only from below, and in the future also from the surrounding buildings that will rise around it.
All photography courtesy of GRAMAZIO KOHLER RESEARCH
