Imagine an apartment where you could whiz down a 1,000-foot ski slope from the roof to the sidewalk.
This daredevil's dream building might eventually be a reality. Called House Slalom, the 21-story residential complex with a ski slope could be built in Kazakhstan.
The design by Shokhan Mataibekov Architects was a finalist in the residential category at this year's World Architecture Festival awards. If the proposal gets the green light, it would be the world's first residential building with a ski slope.
"It makes this building a unique landmark for the city and can attract tourist and riders from all over the world," says Shokhan Mataibekov, the firm's CEO.
The building is designed in a U-shape, and its height would progressively drop at various points. This allows for a gradual slope that winds around the building, Mataibekov tells Tech Insider. Skiers would use the building's glass elevator to reach the top of the slope.
The complex's lower levels would include shops and restaurants, with 421 two-bedroom apartments above them.
Unlike at your average ski resort, House Slalom's track could be used during the entire year. For four to six months of the city's winter, natural snow would be used. In the summer, an artificial snow called Snowflex would cover the slope.
Skiers could even use it at night, because the track would be brightly lit. A high barrier would be attached to the sides of the slope, so it would be completely safe for riders, Mataibekov adds.
Astana is one of the coldest cities in the world, and winter temperatures regularly dip to 20 degrees below zero.
Mataibekov says it can be cumbersome for ski and snowboard enthusiasts to drive to the nearest slope, which is four hours away, so House Slalom would be an instant hit.
Although there's no word yet if it will be built, Mataibekov says he is talking with developers about moving forward with the designs. Construction would cost about $70 million.
The building looks insane, but it would at the very least be an incredible tourist attraction.
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