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Biomimetic Design Featuring Natural Ventilation and Green Roofs in a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Author:
Michael Monsalve-ramirez
Biomimetic Design Featuring Natural Ventilation and Green Roofs in a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating biomimetic design and natural ventilation alongside vibrant green roofs, the multifaceted urban hub serves as a testament to sustainable living and community connectivity in the heart of Medellín.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a biomimetic design inspired by the Ceiba tree, promoting harmony with nature.
02
Features extensive green roofs that enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for an aesthetically pleasing and fire-resistant exterior.
04
Integrates natural ventilation systems that reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
Offers flexible spaces that adapt to various community functions and events.
The Ceiba Urbana project emerges as a significant architectural endeavor situated in Medellín, Colombia, focusing on sustainable urban living while paying homage to the local cultural context. This project encompasses multifunctional spaces that seamlessly blend residential, commercial, and transit functions, thereby addressing various facets of urban life in a rapidly developing city. The architectural design embodies the essence of the Ceiba tree, a symbol of resilience and vitality within the region, reflecting a thoughtful integration of nature and built form.

At the heart of the project lies its commitment to sustainability, with a design that prioritizes environmental responsibility without compromising functionality. The building’s structure is primarily composed of reinforced concrete, ensuring durability and stability. This is complemented by a façade of extensive glass, which allows for natural light to flood interior spaces while maintaining a visual connection with the surroundings. The use of high-quality wood in communal areas enhances warmth and comfort, inviting occupants to engage in shared spaces.

Unique to the Ceiba Urbana design are the organic, flowing forms that characterize its exterior and interior spaces. These design elements are reminiscent of natural structures, allowing the building to harmonize with its environment. The rhythmic patterns of the façade not only serve an aesthetic purpose but also play a crucial role in thermal performance and energy efficiency. Through strategic placement of ventilation openings, the design enhances air circulation, contributing to occupant comfort while minimizing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

The project’s site selection is equally significant, located at a major transit hub that facilitates accessibility and mobility for residents and visitors alike. This existing infrastructure supports the building's function as a community hub, encouraging foot traffic and social interaction, essential components of urban life. The surrounding landscape integrates green elements, creating a refuge from the urban environment and promoting biodiversity. The design emphasizes the importance of community connectivity, inviting users to engage with the space and each other.

A notable feature of Ceiba Urbana is its incorporation of sustainable technologies. The building integrates green roofs and walls, contributing to insulation and stormwater management while enhancing biodiversity within the urban landscape. Solar panels are also part of the architectural strategy, harnessing renewable energy to power the building, thereby reducing its carbon footprint. Rainwater harvesting systems further exemplify the project's commitment to responsible resource management, ensuring that water usage is minimized in a region where such strategies are becoming increasingly vital.

The design fosters a vibrant community atmosphere through the inclusion of sky gardens and communal gathering spaces. These areas are thoughtfully distributed throughout the structure, providing users with connections to their surroundings and opportunities for social engagement. The flexible use of space allows for a variety of activities, from residential living to cultural events, reinforcing the idea of a multifunctional urban center.

Additionally, the Ceiba Urbana project makes a bold statement about its cultural programming. Specific areas within the building are designated for exhibitions and local events, supporting the preservation of cultural identity while embracing contemporary urban development. This aspect of the design not only enriches the architectural experience but also reinforces the community’s bond with the environment and each other.

Overall, the Ceiba Urbana project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to architecture, emphasizing sustainability, community, and connectivity. The integration of natural elements with urban living presents a refined vision of how architecture can respond to the needs of both its users and the environment. To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shape this project, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation for a more comprehensive understanding. The Ceiba Urbana stands not only as an architectural achievement but also as a testament to the possibilities that arise when design aligns with community values and environmental considerations.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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