Conceptualized by Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto, this all-white tower block—scheduled to come to life by the end of 2017—shatters all development stereotypes with its peculiar, pine cone-shaped design, which reflects Fujimoto's philosophy that architecture should strive to mimic forms found in the natural world.

The second in a series of a dozen new "modern folly" edifices planned for the Port Marianne district of Montpellier, France, "Arbre Blanc"—which translates to "white tree"—will stand 17 stories high upon its completion. A soon-to-be mixed-use structure, the building will feature a curved "trunk" similar to that of a tree, while the balconies of its apartments will fan outwards much like leaves reaching for sunlight.

Residences will face in all sorts of directions, allowing future residents to choose the orientations that best fit their lifestyles. Living rooms shall open out to balconies have the size as the apartments in order to accommodate Montpellier's tradition of outdoor living. The flats' spaces do not differentiate between inside and out—residents are free to meander through them organically.

Along with 120 private dwellings, the tower will house an art gallery, a restaurant, a panoramic bar, and office spaces. A common area will also be added on to the building's public bar.

Positioned at the crossroads of numerous major thoroughfares including the Lez River, the development will also incorporate the extension of the riverside park, lengthening the stretch of Christophe Colomb Place.

Photos and details courtesy of Dezeen

The post Behold ‘Arbre Blanc,’ the Soon-to-Be Mixed-Use Tower in France Shaped Like a Pine Cone appeared first on Haute Residence by Haute Living.