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Bioclimatic Façade and Stackable Modules in a Mixed-Use Urban Environment

Author:
Walter Hughes
Bioclimatic Façade and Stackable Modules in a Mixed-Use Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Stackable modules crafted from cross-laminated timber panels are integrated within a bioclimatic façade, creating a flexible mixed-use environment that fosters community interaction and sustainability in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Stackable modules provide flexible living options for residents.
02
Bioclimatic façades adapt to seasonal climate changes for energy efficiency.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic.
04
Integrated green roofs promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Transitional spaces encourage social interactions among community members.

The Berlin Watch Towers project presents a thoughtful approach to urban design that integrates historical references with modern architectural practices. This project is situated in Berlin, Germany, and aims to revitalize an area by harmonizing residential, commercial, and communal spaces. It utilizes a watch tower as a central feature, symbolizing historical observation while incorporating contemporary design principles.

The project’s primary function is to provide a mixed-use environment that promotes community interaction and accommodates diverse activities. This includes residential units, commercial spaces, and public areas designed to enhance urban lifestyle and connectivity. The architectural design emphasizes flexibility, sustainability, and user-centered spaces.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the key aspects of the Berlin Watch Towers project is its stackable module typology. This approach allows for the adaptation of living spaces depending on user needs, offering flexibility in various configurations. Three types of residential units are incorporated: two-bedroom, one-bedroom, and communal living spaces. This design strategy supports diverse occupants and encourages social interactions among residents.

The architecture also focuses on eco-friendly material choices. The use of glass enables natural lighting and transparency, while steel provides structural efficiency. Wood is utilized for its aesthetic appeal and thermal properties in the modular components of the living units. Additionally, green roofs and walls contribute to environmental sustainability by improving air quality and providing insulation.

Environmental sustainability is further enhanced through the integration of bioclimatic façades, allowing the building to adapt to seasonal climate changes effectively. These façades enhance energy efficiency, optimizing heating in winter and promoting passive cooling in summer.

Architectural Interaction and Community Engagement

The project's design promotes community engagement by including public environments that enhance social cohesion. The layout encourages interaction among residents and visitors through transitional spaces and common areas, making it an integral part of the urban landscape. These areas serve as gathering spots, fostering connections between different user groups.

In summary, the Berlin Watch Towers project exemplifies a balanced approach to contemporary urban architecture. It incorporates historical elements with innovative design solutions, addressing both environmental and social considerations in an urban setting. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that shape this project, the reader is encouraged to explore the full project presentation.

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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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