Superpower tower: The invisible skyscraper

The South Korean government has just approved plans for a skyscraper which can become 'invisible'.

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Designed by American firm GDS Architects, the structure will be equipped with cameras which film its surroundings. These images can then be recreated in real-time on the glass surface of the building by 500 rows of LED lights.

In 2011, the company, in collaboration with Samoo Architects and A&U, was awarded the first prize in a National Design Competition to plan and engineer an observation tower to become Korea's National Landmark.

The tower will contain various attractions and entertainment facilities, including a water park and a roller coaster.

At 450 metres (1,476 feet), it is expected to come in sixth on the list of the world’s highest towers, boasting the third highest observation deck in the world.

Charles Wee, AIA, GDS Design Principal, said of the new skyscraper: "We are elated that the many years of design, testing and coordination have led us to that all-important step of beginning the building process.

"We look forward to providing Korea and the world with a completely new model for what it means to be an observation tower."

It is hoped that the invisibility of the building will not pose a problem for landing planes, as the structure will be built just outside of Seoul near the Incheon International Airport.

© GDS Architects