Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Biophilic Design Through Curvilinear Forms and Green Walls in Sustainable Urban Spaces

Author:
Cameron Johnson
Biophilic Design Through Curvilinear Forms and Green Walls in Sustainable Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms and extensive green walls define a sustainable urban environment where reclaimed wood and concrete converge to foster collaborative workspaces and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms enhance the flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.
02
Extensive use of green walls facilitates improved air quality and aesthetics.
03
Reclaimed wood materials create a sustainable structural component.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light throughout the building.
05
Flexible layouts support diverse functions and foster community interaction.
The project under analysis represents a collaborative architectural endeavor between REI and a New York City development. It seeks to address the intersection of urban living and natural environments, creating a synthesis of functional architecture that promotes community interaction and individual well-being. This design utilizes innovative approaches to integrate natural elements within an urban framework, making it a notable case study in modern architectural practices.

The primary function of the project is to provide a versatile space that accommodates both collaborative work and social interactions. This dual-purpose approach is reflected in the layout, which includes designated workspaces, communal lounges, and recreational areas. Each space is intentionally designed to foster connections among users while remaining responsive to the urban context of New York City.

Key features of the project include multi-level architectural organization, with significant focus on Levels 10 and 11. Level 10 consists primarily of open office configurations, promoting collaborative work environments through the strategic use of flexible layouts. Green walls and natural lighting are incorporated, ensuring that users remain connected to nature within an indoor setting. Level 11 is tailored for social engagement, with areas dedicated to gatherings, informal meetings, and relaxation, thus reinforcing community-building within the workspace.

The project distinguishes itself through its unique design elements. One notable aspect is the extensive use of biophilic design, characterized by the integration of living walls, plants, and natural light. This not only enhances the aesthetic quality of interior spaces but also improves air quality and user well-being. Further, the architectural use of curves and organic shapes in corridors and communal areas breaks away from traditional rigid geometries, facilitating a more fluid navigation experience. The combination of reclaimed materials and sustainable construction methods underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility and resilience.

The architectural plans depict a cohesive vision that emphasizes both individual and collective experiences. Architectural sections reveal the interplay between interior environments and the exterior urban landscape, while architectural designs reflect careful consideration of spatial and material dynamics. Attention to detail is evident in the choice of materials, including concrete, wood, glass, and steel, each selected to contribute to both the structural integrity and aesthetic coherence of the project.

In summary, this architectural project offers critical insights into the role of design in enhancing urban environments. Its innovative approaches and commitment to sustainability make it a valuable case for further exploration. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation of architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas for a more comprehensive understanding of this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy