Architecture firm BIG has released renderings of its first project in South America: a curved tower covered with planted balconies that would become the tallest building in Quito.
Bjarke Ingels Group revealed images of the largely residential building for Ecuador's capital, which is projected to include 376,737 square feet (35,000 square metres) of floor space.

Named IQON, the tower will reach 33 storeys tall and feature pixel-like protrusions across its main facades.
"The building is made up of concrete boxes," said a statement from BIG. "Each box is rotated to provide the best possible views and create outdoor terraces for each apartment."

"IQON will be BIG's first project in South America and become Quito's tallest building," the studio added. The city's current record-holder is the Basilica del Sagrado Voto Nacional ? a Roman Catholic church with neo-Gothic spires that rise 377 feet (115 metres). Developed by local company Uribe and Schwarzkopf, IQON will be L-shaped in plan and feature greenery across its exterior ? a popular move from BIG.

The studio has also proposed copious plants for a mixed-use complex for Toronto and a huge development in Miami.
The structure for Quito will feature a notable curved corner, rather than sharp angles, with terraces that bend around the building's perimeter.

This curve is designed to optimise views of three points in the city: La Carolina Park, Pichincha and Cotapaxi volcanoes.
"The building ado...