Macau Tower

The Macau Tower, located in Macau, China, was designed by Gordon

Moller of Craig. Craig Moller Architects from New Zealand. The construction
of the tower began in 1998 and was completed in 2001. The tower was a part
of the effort to enhance Macau's tourism offerings and skyline. It was built
with a combination of modern architectural design and engineering excellence,
making it an iconic structure and a significant landmark in the region. The
Macau Tower has since become a symbol of Macau's development and a
popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

The tower measures 338 meters in height from ground level to the highest
point. There are 4 elevators and capacity of 28 people, elevator speed 18km/h.
Its observation deck features views, restaurants, theaters, shopping malls and
the Skywalk X, a walking tour around the outer rim. It offers the best view of
Macau and in recent years has been used for a variety of adventurous activities.
At 233 meters, the Macau Tower's tethered "skyjump" and Bungee jump by AJ
Hackett from the tower's outer rim, is the highest commercial skyjump in the
world, and is also the second highest commercial decelerator descent facility in
the world, after Vegas' Stratosphere skyjump at 252 meters (827 ft).

Craig Moller

Craig Moller is a director at Moller Architects and has a degree in

architecture from the University of Auckland and Yale University. He has over
25 years of experience in practice on a wide range of building typologies. He
teaches studio at the University of Auckland’s School of Architecture and
Planning.

He is on the Board of Trustees at Western Springs College, an assessor for

the New Zealand Registered Architects Board and a member of the Auckland
Urban Design Panel. He draws in his spare time and rides a bike.

Gordon Moller
 Gordon Moller’s career as a creative designer started with a series of
small houses, where he explored what has become a life-long interest in the
roots of New Zealand architecture. Modest in programme, these works
reflected a sense of form and material that links them to colonial prototypes.
The first of these to attract notice was his own house at Birkdale, designed in
1964, while he was still a student. Shortly afterwards, a second house, designed
for his own family at Pinehaven in 1969, was recognized by his colleagues
with the award of a Bronze Medal in 1970, followed by a Silver Medal in
1971.

The architectural design of the Macau Tower is characterized by a blend

of modern aesthetics, structural innovation, and functional versatility:

 . Elegance and Simplicity -The tower exhibits a sleek and elegant design,
emphasizing simplicity in its overall form. The clean lines contribute to its
modern and timeless aesthetic.
 Structural Elements -A combination of steel and concrete was used in the
construction, allowing the tower to reach its impressive height while
maintaining structural integrity. The tower's structural design ensures
stability against external forces such as wind and seismic activity.
 Observation Deck -At the top, the tower features a spacious observation
deck with panoramic windows, providing visitors with unobstructed views
of Macau and the surrounding areas. The design prioritizes the visitor
experience and appreciation of the scenic beauty.
 Functional Spaces -Beyond its observational purpose, the tower
incorporates various functional spaces. Restaurants, shopping facilities, and
entertainment areas are seamlessly integrated, creating a dynamic and
multifunctional destination.
 Skywalk X-The architectural design incorporates adventurous elements,
such as the Skywalk X, allowing visitors to walk around the outer rim of the
tower. This feature adds an experiential and thrilling dimension to the
overall design.
 Bungee Jumping Platform -The tower gained global recognition for
hosting the AJ Hackett Macau Tower Bungy Jump, and the design of the
platform ensures safety while delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
 Cultural Symbolism-The Macau Tower, with its contemporary design, has
become a cultural symbol of modernization in Macau. It reflects the city's
aspirations for growth, development, and its transition into a global
entertainment hub.

The construction of the Macau Tower involved a systematic process that

spanned several years, combining architectural planning, engineering
precision, and construction expertise. Here is an overview of the construction
process:

 Design and Planning (1998): The process began with detailed

architectural and engineering designs led by Gordon Moller of Craig
Craig Moller Architects. Planning included considerations for the
tower's height, structural integrity, and incorporation of various
attractions.
 Foundation Work: Construction started with the establishment of a
robust foundation. Deep excavation and laying reinforced concrete were
crucial steps to ensure the tower's stability, especially considering its
considerable height.
 Structural Framework: The tower's structural framework was
carefully erected. This involved the assembly of steel and concrete
elements, with precision in placing each section to form the complete
structure.
 Construction Materials -High-quality construction materials,
including steel and reinforced concrete, were used to meet the structural
requirements of a tall and iconic tower.
 Erection of Tower Sections: The tower was constructed in sections,
each carefully lifted and placed into position. Cranes and other
construction equipment were employed for these intricate tasks.
 Architectural Features -Special attention was given to the installation
of architectural features such as the observation deck. These elements
 not only had to meet design specifications but also ensure the safety and
comfort of visitors.
 Safety Measures: Construction of such tall structures requires stringent
safety measures. Workers followed safety protocols, and engineering
designs incorporated safety features to protect the construction team and
future visitors.
 Specialized Installations: Features like the observation deck, Skywalk
X, and the bungee jumping platform required specialized installations.
These were integrated into the construction process with a focus on
functionality and safety.
 Completion (2001)-The construction of the Macau Tower was
completed in 2001, marking the opening of this iconic structure to the
public.

The construction process of the Macau Tower showcased a combination

of architectural brilliance, engineering precision, and adherence to safety
standards. It has since become a symbol of modernization and a key landmark
in Macau's skyline.