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An Adaptive Skyscraper Harnessing Wind and Water Resources

Authors:
Abdulrahman Harib, Valerija Galkina, Carla Roemmelt
An Adaptive Skyscraper Harnessing Wind and Water Resources
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The vertical split design utilizes aerodynamic forms to capture wind energy, while sophisticated moisture management strategies address local climate conditions, serving as a mixed-use facility in the urban landscape of Hong Kong.
5 key facts about this project
01
The vertical split design enhances natural airflow throughout the building.
02
A kinetic energy collection system harnesses prevailing winds for power.
03
Moisture management techniques utilize daily temperature fluctuations for condensation.
04
East and West surfaces are optimized for effective fog harvesting.
05
The skin design mimics biological forms for environmental responsiveness.

The proposal Murus-Scape is located in the dense urban area of Hong Kong, next to a busy motorway. This position enhances accessibility while allowing the building to engage with various environmental factors. The design focuses on sustainability and adapts to local climate conditions. It incorporates innovative technologies and materials to create a structure that is both functional and visually appealing. Emphasizing energy efficiency, Murus-Scape employs smart technology within its framework to reflect a modern approach to urban life.

Site Context and Form

The base of the structure follows a rectilinear pattern that fits within the existing urban grid. As it rises, the design shifts into an aerodynamically effective form. This vertical split allows for the preservation of ground-level movement, which is important for maintaining the flow of urban life. The height of the building is also skilled at capturing airflow, maximizing the benefits of its environment.

Energy and Environmental Responsiveness

A significant characteristic of Murus-Scape is its use of the predominant winds blowing from the North and South-East. The building features a kinetic energy collection system that transforms wind energy into a usable resource. This design choice emphasizes a commitment to sustainable practices. The outer skin of the building draws inspiration from biological forms, providing protection while also adapting to external factors.

Water Collection Strategies

The design takes advantage of local weather patterns by employing methods for passive water collection. Daily changes in temperature are used to promote condensation. Additionally, the East and West surfaces of the building are designed to enhance fog harvesting. These strategies highlight a sophisticated understanding of the local microclimate and display innovative solutions for sustainability in an urban setting.

Energy Efficiency

The orientation of Murus-Scape in relation to the surrounding mountains improves its energy efficiency. The overall shape of the building recalls the forms of clouds, linking it to the atmosphere. This careful integration of design and function responds well to the challenges of urban density. The layered exterior allows for effective energy interaction while providing visual complexity that adds to its character in the cityscape. The play of light and shadow on the building surface further enhances its presence in the urban environment, creating a dynamic relationship with the surroundings.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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