Clusters of parasitic apartment units cling to the sides of the CN Tower in this conceptual proposal by Toronto studio Quadrangle.
The modular wooden residences would nestle between the giant concrete fins of the 553-metre-tall communications tower ? one of the world's tallest, and a major tourist attraction.
"Quadrangle saw an opportunity to reinvigorate the tower with desirable market condominiums, in an excellent location with unparalleled views, while maintaining the building's existing and successful functions," said the studio.
The idea involves hanging the prefabricated cubes between the wind-shielding wings of the structure, drilling supports into the concrete.
Each of pods could be designed to order, with a choice of sizes and layouts. This variety would create a pixelated effect up the sides of the tapered host tower.
Quadrangle proposes constructing the units from cross-laminated timber (CLT), which is created by gluing smaller pieces of wood and pegged as the architectural wonder material of the 21st century.
"CLT's combined lightness and strength ensures that the units can be 'hung' between the wind-shielding 'wings' of the CN Tower," said Quadrangle.
"Since CLT buildings are designed in panels that are made in factories, and snapped into place onsite, the construction will be quick and safe, having no negative impact on tourist traffic."

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