This stunning high-rise by Beijing-based architectural firm MAD is currently under construction in Mississauga, Toronto, Canada. The residential towers’ construction site measures 85,000 sqm. MAD’s Absolute Towers is due for completion in 2011.

The following is from the architects:

‘Modernism has a famous motto: A house is a machine for living in. However, as we increasingly leave the machine age behind, we are left with a question: what message should architecture convey? What is a house for now?

Like other fast developing suburbs in North America, Mississauga is seeking a new identity. This is an opportunity to respond to the needs of an expanding city, to create a residential landmark that moves beyond simple efficiency to provide an emotional connection for the people who live there.

In place of the simple, functional logic of modernism, our design expresses the complex and multiple needs of contemporary society. This building is more than just a functional machine: it responds to its location at the junction of two main streets to become a landmark, a gateway that signifies entrance to a city. It is something beautiful, sculptural and human.

Despite its landmark status, the emphasis is not solely on height. In our design, a continuous balcony surrounds the whole building, eliminating the vertical barriers that are traditionally used in high rise architecture. The entire building rotates by different degrees at different levels, corresponding with the surrounding scenery. Our aim is to provide 360 degree views, to awaken the city dweller’s appreciation of nature, and to get them in touch with the sunlight and the wind.

The Absolute Tower has been nicknamed Marilyn Monroe by the locals.’