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Circular Form Incorporating Vertical Turbines and Glass Facades for Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Ottavio Falcone
Circular Form Incorporating Vertical Turbines and Glass Facades for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical turbines and a circular form, the architectural design transforms sustainability into a living experience, providing a modern, multifunctional hub in the heart of the city.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical turbines integrated into the building's design to generate a significant portion of its energy needs.
02
Features a circular geometry that enhances natural airflow and reduces energy consumption through passive ventilation.
03
Incorporates green terraces within the structure to promote biodiversity and provide residents with accessible outdoor spaces.
04
Constructed with sustainable materials, including cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and environmental impact reduction.
05
Positioned along the waterfront to create a unique urban experience that connects residents with nature and city life.
The architectural project presented embodies modern design principles, delivering a unique take on urban living. Set against a bustling city backdrop, likely New York City, the project serves as both a residential and community hub, melding functionality with aesthetic appeal. This design reflects the evolving narrative of urban architecture, where form and function converge to create spaces that not only house individuals but also nurture community interaction.

The project is characterized by its minimalist geometric form, primarily employing circular and linear motifs. These shapes not only create a visually appealing profile against the skyline but also symbolize connectivity and continuity, echoing the dynamics of urban life. This architectural endeavor intends to enhance the urban space while establishing a distinctive identity.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design, with a thoughtful selection of sustainable materials reinforcing the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The incorporation of glass provides transparency, allowing light to flood the interiors while seamlessly connecting the occupants to the surrounding environment. Steel is utilized for its structural strength and versatility, enabling the construction of sleek profiles that define the building's silhouette. In addition, the integration of sustainable materials throughout the building emphasizes the importance of energy efficiency in contemporary architecture.

This project is not just a physical structure but also a representation of forward-thinking design approaches. The incorporation of vertical axis turbines significantly reduces energy requirements, producing a substantial portion of the building's energy needs. Such features demonstrate a proactive response to the growing demand for sustainable solutions in urban architecture. Furthermore, the use of airflow modeling in the design process highlights the project's intention to optimize natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on artificial climate control and promoting occupant comfort.

Integrating green spaces further enhances the project's unique appeal. The inclusion of vegetation at the building's base and within proposed terraces not only contributes to ecological diversity but also creates inviting areas for residents and visitors. This integration of nature into the urban fabric encourages a more holistic approach to city living, acknowledging the role of greenery in promoting both mental and physical well-being.

The project also sets a precedent for how urban environments can adapt to the challenges of density. Its strategic location along the waterfront enables direct engagement with both the river and the urban skyline, enriching the site’s context. This positioning not only provides stunning views but also promotes connectivity to public transport routes and pedestrian pathways, fostering a sense of community and accessibility.

This architectural endeavor serves a dual purpose: it is designed to accommodate the needs of its residents while simultaneously acting as a beacon of sustainable practices in urban design. The seamless blend of thoughtful design, innovative sustainability features, and engaging communal spaces makes this project an important milestone in contemporary architecture.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural concepts and designs within this project, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide extensive insights. This exploration will reveal the intricate details that contribute to the overall design narrative, offering a comprehensive understanding of how modern architecture can adapt and thrive within the constraints of urban environments.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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