Gazprom Tower Tallest Sustainable Building in Europe

The Gazprom Tower, or the Okhta Tower has been given a green light for construction, upon completion of which it will be the tallest building in Europe.
To be built in St. Petersburg, Russia, the 77-storey tower isn’t just about height, the modern building will also be full of environmentally friendly features.

It will have plenty of natural lighting and ventilation, thermal insulation to protect against the cold and harsh weather of St. Petersburg, and specialized water, heating and ventilation systems to minimize energy needs.
The 400-meter tower will serve as the headquarters of Gazprom’s oil unit OAO Gazprom Neft, and will also include a concert hall, museum, hotel and a business center.

Source: Inhabitat

Renzo Piano, The Shard at London Bridge, The Latest Skyscraper in Europe

Destined to redefine London’s skyline, The Shard at London Bridge will surely become a recognisable symbol of the capital throughout the world.
Construction of the Shard began this week and by the time of its completion, in early 2012, London will be the host of one of Europe’s tallest buildings and one of the most technologically advanced towers ever built.

Architecturally breathtaking, the concept behind The Shard was designed within seconds in a Berlin restaurant by the renowned architect Renzo Piano, a few years ago.
“The tower is designed to be a sharp and light presence on the London skyline, and to be sustainable from every point of view: human, technological, energetic and economic.” Says Piano and he really means it.

The Shard has many sustainable credentials and is expected to use around 30% less energy than other comparable buildings and will also be a virtually car-free building. Can you imagine that? A 320 meter building with parking space for only 47 cars. Seriously!
Modern offices and efficient, flexible spaces suitable for a range of different working environments, a luxurious Hotel and Resort Group offering only the best in Hospitality, the finest apartments in London, providing an address of unrivalled status and gallery spaces, sky-high bars and restaurants will be available in The Shard.
And if you think that there is no market for such development projects in Europe, let me inform you that 40% of the building has been let out already, construction day 1!
If you are a Renzo fan you can also check out these articles:

Renzo Piano designs the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center
Renzo Piano and the California Academy of Science