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Algae Tubes and Vertical Greenhouses in Community Living

Authors:
Libby Haslam, Baylee Rushton, Zahra Hassanipour
Algae Tubes and Vertical Greenhouses in Community Living
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Incorporating algae tubes and vertical greenhouses, the design enhances ecological sustainability while providing communal living spaces that foster connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates specialized algae tubes that purify air and enhance indoor environments.
02
Features vertical greenhouses integrated into multiple levels for urban agriculture.
03
Utilizes boardwalks to connect communal spaces while promoting outdoor interaction.
04
Emphasizes locally sourced ingredients in dining to strengthen community ties.
05
Design includes a curated ecosystem that integrates with the surrounding landscape.

The Skógur design is located in a natural setting where the architecture intertwines with the landscape. The concept is centered around the idea of a forest made of glass, allowing people to deeply connect with nature. The design promotes a flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging movement through interconnected levels. This approach focuses on creating community ties and offers an eco-friendly environment.

Connectivity

The structure features a system of boardwalks that run through the landscape. These pathways connect different parts of the project and guide residents as they move through various communal and private areas. By encouraging exploration, the design allows individuals to engage with their surroundings, making the experience of the site more interactive and enriching.

Communal Dining

There are several levels designated for communal dining activities. These spaces accommodate both small gatherings and larger events, fostering a sense of community among the residents. The dining experience highlights the use of local ingredients, strengthening the link between the people and their environment while promoting sustainable practices within daily life.

Vertical Greenhouses

An important feature of Skógur is the inclusion of vertical greenhouses, which sustain ecological systems within the building. This integration of agriculture alongside living spaces supports a balanced lifestyle for residents. The focus on green areas emphasizes the vital role of nature within the design, presenting the structure as part of a larger ecosystem.

Integrated Systems

The project employs water tubes, steam tubes, and algae tubes as part of its design. These elements contribute to efficient resource management and improve indoor air quality. The use of glass tubes for growing algae not only enhances air purification but also adds an interesting visual aspect, further connecting the architectural design with nature.

Thoughtful details are evident in the arrangement of spaces, emphasizing natural light and airflow. Every aspect of the project is designed to create an inviting environment. The experience of nature is woven into the indoor spaces, gently blurring the lines between where the building ends and nature begins.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

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