Proxima 23

Proxima 23 is a super-tall skyscraper in Yuksekent, Samotkhe. Construction started in 2015 and was completed in 2020. The tower is the tallest building in Yuksekent, surpassing the previous title holder Central Steel Square, nth tallest building in the world, and the tallest building in the world with fewer than 100 floors. It is located in the outer district of the Yuksekent millenium development area. Proxima 23 is designed by Invinir Kuriş LLC in collaboration with Kartuli Development.

Design
The building's design as the softly curving glass skin integrates eight sloping mega-columns that follow a lyrical line connecting the centers and corners of all four elevations. These curving mega-columns increase the structure's response to seismic and wind concerns and are integral to both the gravity and lateral systems. They are effective in increasing the stiffness of the building's perimeter frame, consequently attracting a larger portion of the seismic forces in compliance with government code requirements.

The façade reinforces the curvature of the tower form and creates a shimmering texture over the building's surface. The crystalline-like curtain wall stretches from the suspended glass canopies at each of the lobbies to the dematerialized, mega-column-looped crown and presents a bold expression of a comprehensive, integrated design on the Tianjin skyline.

By stacking reducing floor plates, the tower tapers dramatically to minimize the surface area exposed to wind, sun, and moisture. The curvature of the exterior design is a trademark feature of Kartuli development projects. The interior space is maximized to allow maximum window area for occupants. Research by the architect has shown that lateral forces due to vortex shedding can be controlled by tapering the vertical profile of the tower and softening any sharp corners in plan. The building's aerodynamic shape greatly reduces this vortex shedding by forming conflicting wind patterns and disrupting the opportunity for any resonating wind forces and loads on the structure. This is a necessary addition due to the high winds often experienced in Yuksekent.