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Carbon-Capturing Structure With Photovoltaic Facade Integrating Urban Greenery and Dynamic Spaces

Authors:
Gizem Avgan, Dilara Çağlayan, Eusebio Benson Sanga
Carbon-Capturing Structure With Photovoltaic Facade Integrating Urban Greenery and Dynamic Spaces

Project in-detail

Integrating carbon-absorbing materials and a photovoltaic facade, this dynamic high-rise creates vibrant urban spaces while promoting environmental sustainability through its innovative design and multifunctional layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes carbon-capturing materials to enhance urban air quality.
02
Incorporates a photovoltaic facade for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Features dynamic spaces designed for community interaction and engagement.
04
Integrates green roofs and terraces to promote biodiversity in an urban setting.
05
Employs advanced computational design techniques for innovative forms and structure.
The architectural project X-hive is an innovative structure located in Levent, Istanbul, Turkey, embodying a unique synthesis of organic design principles and advanced sustainable technologies. This project is a striking example of how contemporary architecture can address both functional and environmental concerns in an urban context. Its design represents a commitment to creating a harmonious relationship between human activity and the surrounding environment, thereby reflecting a growing trend in architecture to prioritize sustainability alongside aesthetic appeal.

At its core, X-hive serves a mixed-use function, integrating various facilities such as executive offices, retail spaces, dining establishments, and communal areas. This multifaceted approach allows for a vibrant urban environment that encourages social interaction and community engagement. By combining these diverse functions, the design fosters a sense of connectivity not only within the building itself but also with the wider cityscape of Istanbul. The building's layout is responsive to both human flow and environmental factors, enhancing the user experience while addressing the needs of a dynamic urban population.

X-hive features a series of carefully designed elements that contribute to its overall impact. The project's façade is predominantly composed of glass, which allows for abundant natural light while granting occupants panoramic views of the urban landscape. This transparency promotes a sense of openness and connectivity between interior and exterior spaces, further bridging the divide between the built environment and nature. The structure's form displays a fluidity reminiscent of natural shapes, evoking the appearance of a hive, which not only inspires the name but also emphasizes the idea of a living environment that adapts and evolves alongside its inhabitants.

The architectural design incorporates reinforced concrete as a primary structural material, ensuring durability and resilience against the environmental loads commonly experienced in Istanbul. Additionally, the use of photovoltaic panels on the building’s southern exposure significantly contributes to the project's sustainability initiatives by harnessing solar energy. This aspect aligns with the contemporary architectural movement toward energy-efficient structures, making X-hive a noteworthy example of practical environmental stewardship.

A key feature of the design is the integration of carbon-absorbing materials, which actively contribute to improving air quality in urban settings. By filtering harmful pollutants, this innovative approach addresses significant health concerns related to urban living. The project also includes green terraces and landscaped communal spaces that provide not only aesthetic value but also foster biodiversity and enhance thermal regulation within the structure.

The design emphasizes dynamic entrances positioned to respond to the surrounding road systems, encouraging pedestrian traffic and accessibility. The layout incorporates communal gathering areas, such as recreational spaces and amphitheater-like seating, designed to nurture community engagement and encourage events. Through careful planning, the project aims to promote an active lifestyle for its users, reinforcing the significance of social spaces in urban architecture.

X-hive stands out through its unique architectural approaches that blur the lines between nature and built form. The incorporation of advanced computational design techniques allows for a seamless interplay of shapes and forms that are not only visually compelling but also highly functional. The project exemplifies an ethos of adaptability, indicating a shift toward designs that are not static but rather responsive to changing environmental conditions and user requirements.

For those interested in a more detailed exploration of X-hive, including its architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, it is worthwhile to delve deeper into this project presentation. The intricate interplay of form, function, and sustainability makes it an exemplary case study in contemporary architectural ideas, underscoring the importance of innovative thinking in meeting the challenges of urban development. Readers are encouraged to investigate further to appreciate the depth of thought and consideration that has gone into the design of X-hive.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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