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3D-Printed Layers Enhanced by Vertical Gardens in Urban Residential Design

Author:
Yi Yang Chai
3D-Printed Layers Enhanced by Vertical Gardens in Urban Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D-printed layers and incorporating vertical gardens, the design merges sustainability with adaptability to create a flexible urban residence that responds to the changing needs of its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for structural layers to enhance design flexibility.
02
Features vertical gardens integrated into the building facade for improved air quality.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Adapts modular living spaces that can be reconfigured based on occupant needs.

## Analytical Report on the Architectural Design Project "House of Layerings"

### Project Overview
"House of Layerings" is located in the urban context of the United Arab Emirates, where it engages with the unique climate, social dynamics, and architectural heritage of the region. The project aims to redefine contemporary residential living through the integration of spatial layering, advanced construction techniques such as 3D printing, and sustainable design practices. This approach prioritizes flexibility, environmental interaction, and aesthetic innovation, allowing the structure to adapt to the diverse needs of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Organization and Functional Blocks
The design organizes the residence into three distinct functional blocks: Living Block, Service Block, and Social Block, interconnected by transitional spaces that enhance both functionality and flow.

- **Living Block:** Serving as the core of the home, this area includes common spaces, courtyards, and various living environments that encourage interactions and a sense of community among family members.
- **Service Block:** Housing essential operational areas such as kitchens and storage, this section is strategically positioned to enhance accessibility and efficiency in day-to-day activities.
- **Social Block:** This portion of the design facilitates larger gatherings and is intentionally integrated with outdoor spaces, promoting an inviting atmosphere that supports communal living.

### Adaptive Materiality and Environmental Integration
The material selection in "House of Layerings" reflects a commitment to modern aesthetics along with sustainable design. Key features include:

- **3D Printed Structural Layers:** These provide a strong and adaptable framework for the building.
- **Semi-Temporary Finishing Layers:** Designed for easy adjustments, these allow residents to modify interior spaces based on changing needs.
- **Movable Partitions:** These elements enable flexible spatial configurations, adapting to various usages over time.
- **Landscaping Elements:** The integration of earth layers and living walls enhances biodiversity and contributes positively to the surrounding ecosystem.

### User Experience and Community Engagement
The design prioritizes an immersive living experience, with a focus on sensory engagement. Natural light and airflow are maximized through open spaces, complemented by air wells and vertical gardens that enliven the interior environment.

- **Circulation Spaces:** Features such as spiral staircases and viewpoints within courtyards promote movement and strengthen connections between the different functional layers, fostering a communal atmosphere.
- **Rooftop Garden:** Serving both as a green space and a home-farming area, the roof terrace reinforces the project's focus on self-sufficiency and promotes outdoor interactions among residents.

The overall design exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary housing, balancing flexibility, sustainability, and community interaction within an urban setting.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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