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Biophilic Verticality Enhanced by Sustainable Glass Facades and Prefabricated Concrete Systems

Authors:
Camillo Marchionatti, Andrea Zanocchi, Rosastella Riccadonna
Biophilic Verticality Enhanced by Sustainable Glass Facades and Prefabricated Concrete Systems

Project in-detail

Integrating biophilic elements with prefabricated concrete systems and expansive glass facades, the design redefines urban living by offering adaptable residential spaces that promote community interaction and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates extensive greenery into the façade, enhancing air quality and promoting biodiversity.
02
Employs modular prefabrication techniques for efficient construction and adaptability to site conditions.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
05
Incorporates community-focused areas within the vertical structure to foster social interaction.

The "Sky District" is an architectural design project focused on creating a vertical urban environment that reflects and enhances modern urban living. It addresses the need for efficient use of space in densely populated areas while integrating aspects of sustainability and community engagement. The project incorporates modular construction techniques and aims to maintain a cohesive relationship with its surroundings.

Vertical Urbanism Approach

The architectural design emphasizes vertical urbanism, utilizing slender forms that rise gracefully within the city skyline. Each structure is designed to maximize space efficiency while providing public and private areas that cater to various user needs. The use of modular blocks allows flexibility in design, enabling adaptations based on environmental conditions and community requirements. The integration of natural light through expansive glass façades enhances interior environments and fosters a connection between occupants and the urban landscape.

Sustainable Materiality

A key feature of the "Sky District" is its thoughtful material selection, promoting durability and environmental responsibility. The primary materials used include glass for transparency, concrete for structural integrity, and metal cladding for aesthetic continuity. The incorporation of greenery into the design addresses biophilic principles, enhancing both the visual quality and ecological resilience of the building. This layering of natural and built environments supports a broader goal of enhancing urban biodiversity and improving air quality.

Community Engagement and Functionality

The project's layout integrates communal spaces, facilitating social interaction among residents and visitors. Public areas such as parks and recreational facilities are strategically positioned to encourage community engagement within the vertical structure. These spaces are designed to accommodate various activities while maintaining accessibility and inclusiveness. The overall design of the "Sky District" is characterized by its attention to functional versatility, allowing for future adaptability based on evolving urban dynamics.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the "Sky District."

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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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