[in-enaction] international practices: Perkins + Wil (Antilia, Ambani house)

Perkins + Will won the commission for Antilia in 2004, besting Foster + 
Partners, SITE, Wilkinson & Eye, and Ken Yang. The building occupies a 
one-acre site on Altamount Road, where real estate prices top $1,000 
per-square-foot. Construction had reached Antilia’s mid-section garden, 
but was halted this summer after a land dispute. Although the delay is 
expected to be temporary, many Indians nevertheless feel that the 
residence flaunts the country’s socialist sensitivities—and that it is 
excessive and ostentatious given that more than 65 percent of Mumbai’s 
18 million residents live in tenements.

Others, though, find aspects of the skyscraper to admire. Mumbai-based 
architect Hafeez Contractor praises Antilia’s efficient use of land. 
“Occupying less space on the ground decongests the area at the ground 
level so more trees can be planted,” he explains. “Ambani’s choice will 
make high-rises more acceptable.”

cont'd....
http://archrecord.construction.com/news/daily/archives/071018perkinswill.asp