Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Algae-Filled Chambers Promoting Urban Air Purification in a Vertical Green Park

Authors:
Wolfgang sebastian Kiehne, Cayetano garcia Cachay, Christian Bechara
Algae-Filled Chambers Promoting Urban Air Purification in a Vertical Green Park

Project in-detail

Algae-filled chambers filter urban pollutants while a vertical green park enhances the microclimate, combining air purification with residential, educational, and office spaces in a multifunctional structure.
5 key facts about this project
01
Algae-filled chambers actively purify urban air.
02
A vertical park enhances local biodiversity and aesthetic value.
03
Integrated community spaces promote social interaction among users.
04
Advanced air filtration systems streamline continuous CO2 reduction.
05
Strategic design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout.

The AirCleanser project presents an innovative approach to urban living, strategically situated in Detroit. This vertical structure combines various functions such as residential, educational, and office spaces, while also addressing essential environmental challenges. The design promotes the idea of an active skyscraper that interacts with its surroundings to enhance air quality and encourage community connection.

Air Purification Mechanism

At the heart of the AirCleanser is its air purification system, allowing the building to act as a vertical air refiner. The structure draws in polluted air, which is then directed into algae-filled chambers. This process removes CO2 and other harmful substances, responding directly to urban pollution.

Integration of Green Space

The design includes a significant midsection dedicated to a green park. This area provides both recreational space and environmental benefits. It introduces nature into the city, improving the aesthetic quality and positively affecting the local climate. This park offers a refreshing escape for residents and visitors alike, enhancing their experience in the urban setting.

Multifunctionality and Community Engagement

AirCleanser features a diverse range of spaces for living, working, and learning. This multifunctional approach meets the needs of the community while making the building a gathering place. By fostering interaction between different groups, the design highlights the importance of human connections in today’s urban landscape.

Sustainability and Material Choices

Sustainability is a key focus in the design, particularly with the use of algae in the air purification system. Algae can efficiently process carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, showcasing natural processes that have a positive impact. This choice demonstrates a commitment to ecological responsibility within the context of urban architecture.

The structure culminates in a distinct tip, marking the end of its vertical form. This feature not only stands out but also serves as a release point for cleaned air. It encapsulates the aim of combining function with environmental awareness, reinforcing its role within the urban environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy