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Bamboo Scaffolding Meets Tiered Living in Urban Residential Design

Authors:
Ka Leung Chan, Sicheng Hu
Bamboo Scaffolding Meets Tiered Living in Urban Residential Design
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Utilizing bamboo scaffolding as a structural element, the design integrates a tiered geometric form that fosters community spaces within a high-density urban residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo scaffolding as a primary structural element.
02
Features a tiered design that promotes communal interaction.
03
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity.
04
Maximizes natural light through extensive glass facades.
05
Adapts modular living spaces for varying residential needs.

### Overview

Located in Hong Kong, the architectural design addresses contemporary urban living challenges by blending traditional techniques with modern construction methods. Central to the design is the innovative use of bamboo scaffolding, a culturally significant practice that reflects local heritage while providing a sustainable alternative to conventional construction.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Integration

The building deviates from conventional skyscraper forms, favoring a sculptural design that interacts thoughtfully with its urban context. The elongated and tiered structure not only contributes to the skyline but also creates sheltered communal spaces that encourage social interaction among residents. This approach addresses the need for community engagement within a densely populated area, allowing the design to absorb irregular urban pockets and foster a sense of belonging.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The primary materials employed in the project include bamboo, concrete, glass, and wood. Bamboo serves as a key construction element, highlighting its sustainability and strength, while concrete provides structural stability. Glass elements enhance the availability of natural light and extend visual connections to the surroundings, effectively merging indoor and outdoor experiences. Wood is used to introduce warmth and textural diversity, complementing the architectural narrative established by the bamboo scaffolding techniques. The modular design further enhances adaptability to various site conditions, ensuring both cost-effectiveness and efficient use of resources throughout the construction process.

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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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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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