Liverpool’s unique version of The Statue of Liberty planned for River Mersey

150 150 Daniel Fountain
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The iconic Liver Bird is the inspiration for the latest design by award-winning architect, David Backhouse. Renowned for creating the Cavern Walks and the Cavern Club in Liverpool, Backhouse has now turned his expertise into giving Liverpool a unique building that sets it apart from the rest of the world.

Standing 100 meters tall and nestled at the entrance to Liverpool in the River Mersey, ‘Homecoming’ – The Statue of Liverpool, is a stunning new 23 storey building, perched in a five storey nest. A split-level restaurant will be located behind the Liver Birds eyes, offering a panoramic view of Liverpool, similar to that of the Statue of Liberty in New York or the Oriental Peal Tower in Shanghai.

The property will be fully self-sustaining with zero energy costs as power will be generated via wind turbines within the ‘wings’ of the structure and tidal turbines underneath the ‘nest’. The bird will also be covered in diamond shaped photovoltaic cells converting solar power into energy.

Tidal experts, engineers and a local river pilot have been consulted regarding the positioning of the project.

David Backhouse and the design team are actively seeking investors to help bring this Liverpool Landmark to fruition and have suggested a range of uses for the development, including a luxury hotel and private apartments, to specialised shopping outlets and creative spaces.

Backhouse says, “This is the culmination of an idea we had nearly 30 years ago now. The concept has never been far from my thoughts throughout my years of working on many prestigious Liverpool-based projects. I’m so pleased now to finally present the idea to both the city, and the world!”

Daniel Fountain / 12.09.2015

Editor, Hotel Designs

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