Cobra (TX-I) NexGen Smart Building
- Mark Lafond, RA

- Sep 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 13
The Two-Century Giant Leap in NexGen Architecture

Architecture Advances Technology
To restore the prominence of American cities, it is necessary to replace outdated structures. This revitalization is crucial for attracting both residents and industries, ensuring that cities offer a level of comfort and security comparable to suburban areas.
Over the last century, buildings have seen gradual technological advancements, beginning with the invention of the elevator and later the thermostat. The next major leap in architecture is underway, marking an evolution that aligns with the emerging decentralized world.
In the 21st century, OpDez Architecture has concentrated on integrating current technologies to develop Smart Buildings.
OpDez Architecture has spent several years developing Cobra (TX-IV). It is a mixed-use, adaptable Residential + Commercial High-rise intended to provide both high density and spacious consideration within an ultra-modern system powered by SGET (Self Generating Energy Technologies). Its most compelling feature is the fact that it is an energy-independent system that provides surplus energy exceeding the high usage demands of its occupants.
The unique design of Cobra is the development of systems that maximize the quality of life for its occupants whilst meeting the complex programmatic needs of its “living” systems. Encompassing a multitude of amenities with interior spaces, it is designed to be adaptable with a customizable cellular system to maximize the flexibility of its versatile program. Built completely from the ground up to be energy-independent, Cobra was created to perform and win in regions with consistent wind vectors throughout the year.

Significantly, the inspiration for Cobra's design is rooted in the symbolic characteristics of a cobra in repose. The concept originates from a vision aimed at crafting a slender aerodynamic profile that effectively addresses the wind conditions of the site while ensuring a sufficiently spacious floor plate area to maintain economic viability. This design is formulated based on OpDez Architecture’s modeling system and design methodology, which has significantly bolstered its overall design and development phase, facilitating seamless integration and coordination of mechanical and electrical systems.
Cobra is specifically tailored to operate in designated climatic zones with moderate wind speeds, with the intention of tapping into consistent wind patterns. The foundational massing geometry is shaped aerodynamically, emphasizing airflow and enhancing the wind operating efficiency of the entire facility. It is particularly well-suited for moderately populated areas in both coastal and inland regions.
Top of Form
Cobra is primarily a steel and concrete structure with an adaptive exoskeleton that helps increase the net-to-gross ratio of modern interior spaces

The NexGen Smart Buildings that we are designing today will shape the Smart Cities of tomorrow. With the integration of automation, virtual reality, robotics, and other yet-to-be-released technologies, our buildings will become decentralized, fragile-proof, self-sustaining eco systems.
Moreover, with automation, NexGen Smart Buildings will have zero human maintenance and self-cleaning capabilities, and aerodynamic profile improvement modifications.

Systems and Technologies:
Proprietary
Specifications:
Height - 596 ft
Floors - 49
Green Gross Area - 182,764 ft^2
Residential Gross Area - 24,116,964 ft^2
Retail Gross Area - 656,207 ft^2
OpDez Architecture focuses on the design of Smart Buildings.
Smart Buildings are the latest innovation in construction since the previous industrial revolution. The industrial revolution of the 21st century has begun, highlighting a decentralized world. Our Smart Buildings are enhancing the quality of life for individuals and cities worldwide.
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