A unique complex with "dancing" silhouettes -
The second-highest architectural ensemble of the capital and a symbol of technological excellence -
Emerald Towers is an ambitious world-class project, holding a prominent place in the city's skyline right after the Qazaqstan tower. Located on the main axis of Astana – Nurzhol Boulevard – this complex dominates the landscape due to its record height and unusual asymmetry.
Each building in the complex seems to open up toward the sky: starting from the 32nd floor, the area of the levels increases, causing the tops of the towers to lean away from the base by as much as 15 meters, creating an illusion of soaring and dynamic growth.
The architecture of the quarter, developed by Canadian master Roy Varacalli, has turned it into a prestigious hub for major national companies, including the headquarters of KazMunayGas.
The panoramic glazing of the buildings with a deep green tint reflects the sky of the steppe capital, while the massive natural stone base emphasizes the monumentality of the structure. This is a place where large-scale engineering thought has merged with aesthetics, forming a unique look for the administrative center of Astana.
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How to get there and visit -
The Emerald Towers complex is located at: 8 Dinmukhamed Konayev Street, in close proximity to the Kazakhstan Temir Zholy building, Yesil district, left bank of the Ishim River, Astana city, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 51°07'46"N 71°25'22"E
You can reach the site by buses No. 29A, 12, 35, 21, 28, 70, 10, 29 to the "Emerald Towers" or "Northern Lights RC" stops.
For those arriving by private car, innovative parking lots integrated into the infrastructure are provided, and a walk from the "Baiterek" monument will allow you to fully appreciate the scale of these glass giants.
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History
Construction of Emerald Towers began in 2006 as a joint project between the Canadian firm Zeidler Partnership Architects and the project institute "Bazis." The erection of the main tower faced challenges during the 2008–2009 global financial crisis, causing work to be frozen for more than a year. Despite the difficulties, Tower A was officially commissioned in 2011, becoming the tallest building in Kazakhstan at that time.
Construction of the second tower of the complex began in April 2010. The project originally intended for a third tower, but plans changed over time, and construction of another object began on the designated site. Nevertheless, the two completed towers have harmoniously blended into the look of the left bank, proving that even under climatic and economic challenges, Astana is capable of embodying the boldest architectural concepts. The total cost of this grand project was 350 million dollars.
Information
The complex includes two main towers: Tower A (53 floors, 201 meters high) and Tower B (45 floors, about 182 meters high). In the tallest building, 18 high-speed elevators are installed, ensuring the fast movement of employees and visitors. The mass of Tower A is an impressive 186 thousand tons, and its stability is guaranteed by deep bored piles and a powerful foundation slab 3 meters thick.
The total area of the complex is 280,000 square meters. The internal space is designed according to the requirements of a modern business environment: spacious Class A offices are complemented by a three-story foyer with transparent walls and an innovative roof that fills the building with light.
The quarter's infrastructure includes a fitness center, a supermarket, bank branches, and cozy cafes, making it a full-fledged "vertical city" for effective work and rest.
Detailed description of the object
Visually, Emerald Towers stands out with its rich emerald color of glazing, which changes shades depending on the time of day. The asymmetric shape of the buildings, where the upper part is significantly wider than the base, creates a unique visual effect of an "opening fan."
This architectural solution not only gives the buildings individuality but also symbolizes Kazakhstan's openness to new opportunities and its steady upward drive.
Inside the towers, an atmosphere of inspiration and creative energy prevails. Spacious halls with plenty of light and modern design emphasize the status of the tenants. The upper floors of the towers offer breathtaking panoramic views of the government quarter, Ak Orda, and the endless steppe expanses surrounding the capital.
In the evening, the complex transforms, becoming a shining beacon that points the way into the world of innovation and boundless success.
Architecture
The architectural concept of Emerald Towers is based on breaking the usual symmetry of skyscrapers. Increasing the floor area as height is gained is a complex engineering task successfully solved by Roy Varacalli.
The use of energy-saving panoramic glazing and natural stone in the finishing of lower levels creates a balance between natural materials and high technologies. The buildings have become a symbol of a new era of entrepreneurship, where architecture doesn't just form the landscape but inspires progress and dynamic development.
Legend
Among Emerald Towers employees, there is a legend about the "Golden Hour of Luck." They say that if you manage to make a wish while looking at the reflection of the setting sun in the emerald glass of the towers, any business idea will take material form and bring success.
People believe that the 15-meter lean of the upper part of the building is not just an architect's calculation, but an attempt to "reach out" to the future, bringing the energy of prosperity into today.
Old-timers say the location for the quarter was chosen at a point where streams of light intersect, creating an atmosphere of clarity for making important state decisions.
For the residents of Astana, these towers have become a symbol that even in the coldest winters, Emerald Towers remains a warm center of creation, where each floor is a new step to the peak of national development. It is a guidebook to the world of great achievements, reminding that success loves the bold and those who are not afraid to change familiar forms.
Interesting landmarks nearby:
• Round Square;
• Lovers' Park;
• Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center;
• Abu Nasir Al-Farabi Mosque;
• Ak Orda Presidential Residence;
• Keruen Shopping and Entertainment Center;
• Korme Exhibition Center.
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