Tree-inspired architecture continues to sprout up around the world, including plant-covered buildings currently under construction in Taipei, Dallas, and Singapore. Several firms, from Los Angeles to Switzerland, have turned to trees and shrubs as an integral building material. The arboreal aesthetic is inspired by a number of practical considerations: In efforts to minimize the effects of greenhouse gases from new buildings, architects have incorporated more greenery to supply shade, boost air quality, and lessen the occupants’ need for air-conditioning. AD surveys eight beautiful, tree-centric buildings that are changing the way we look at modern architecture.

Rolex’s future Dallas headquarters was designed by architect Kengo Kuma and broke ground in 2015. Inspired by the stone walls of Japanese castles, the building twists to reveal landscaped terraces and will feature a tree-lined rooftop event space.