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Algae Panels Power Vertical Farming in Urban Living

Authors:
Pawel Kwapisz, Martyna Apczynska, Mikolaj Kaluzny
Algae Panels Power Vertical Farming in Urban Living

Project in-detail

With algae panels driving its energy needs and a vertical farm integrated seamlessly into its design, the building redefines urban living by combining sustainability with residential and commercial functions in Wrocław.
5 key facts about this project
01
Algae panels adapt and grow based on sunlight exposure, creating a dynamic living facade.
02
The building integrates a vertical farm that supports local food production.
03
Windmills on the rooftop generate electricity for the entire structure.
04
Green terraces on the hotel level offer views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Rainwater collection systems are used for grey water throughout the building.

The project located in Wrocław, Poland, confronts the challenges posed by urban growth, particularly the need for more food production and the pressures of a rising population. Centered around the idea of a vertical farm, it combines agricultural space with residential and commercial functions. The design promotes self-sufficiency and sustainability within the heart of the city, creating a multifunctional environment.

Mixed-Use Development

The building serves several purposes, including housing, offices, a market hall, and a hotel positioned at the top. The hotel includes green terraces that offer expansive views of the area. This arrangement supports community interaction while enhancing the building's visual appeal.

Living Facade

One of the notable features of the design is the use of algae panels on the facade. These panels perform multiple roles, as they generate energy and assist with heating. Acting like a living element, the algae respond to sunlight, growing and moving within their compartments. This characteristic brings a sense of life and change to the structure, making it visually engaging.

Sustainability Measures

The design aims for energy self-sufficiency. Windmills on the rooftop generate electricity, while systems for collecting rainwater are in place. This rainwater is reused as grey water within the building, reflecting a commitment to reduce environmental impact. These sustainable strategies are integral to the structure’s overall functionality and ecological approach.

The algae panels exemplify how architecture can integrate biological processes, creating a deeper connection between nature and urban living. This detail invites both residents and visitors to consider the role of the built environment in the larger ecological system.

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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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