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Concrete Columns and Reinforced Structure in Vertical Urban Living

Author:
Iván Tamayo Ramos
Concrete Columns and Reinforced Structure in Vertical Urban Living

Project in-detail

Rising 170 meters, the vertical living structure combines a reinforced concrete framework with efficient unit layouts to create adaptable residential spaces for a diverse urban population in Central Hong Kong.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooftop amenities include a swimming pool, gym, and conference room.
02
The tower reaches 170 meters in height to optimize urban space.
03
Units are designed for flexibility, catering to singles, couples, and families.
04
Vertical circulation includes a dedicated loading elevator with 2500 kg capacity.
05
The structural framework is composed of six concrete columns and three load-bearing walls.

The architectural design presents a vertical living solution tailored to the evolving demands of urban life. Located on Lung Wo Road in Central, Hong Kong, the structure reaches a height of 170 meters and has a footprint of 97.5 square meters. The objective is to create living spaces that cater to different lifestyles, featuring 90 residential units designed for singles, couples, and families. This approach reflects a shift towards a shared economy, moving away from the traditional concept of ownership, and focusing instead on compact and functional living environments.

Structural Framework

The building is supported by a solid structural system made up of six concrete columns and three load-bearing walls. The use of reinforced concrete and steel reinforces the stability and safety of the entire structure. This framework is vital for balancing the weight of the building while allowing for versatile layouts in the residential units above. The careful arrangement of these structural elements also provides opportunities for flexibility in the design.

Residential Layouts

Three distinct types of apartments are included in the design to accommodate various living requirements. Type 01 includes 37.7 square meters of space and features a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, studio, and living area. Type 02 is smaller, at 20.8 square meters, but still offers essential functionalities for everyday living. The Type 03 apartment provides 54.6 square meters, making it suitable for families while adhering to the constraints and considerations of vertical living.

Circulation and Services

Vertical circulation is an important part of the design, with several elevators facilitating movement throughout the building. One of these elevators is a dedicated loading elevator that can carry up to 2500 kilograms. This ensures that both residents and goods can be transported efficiently and safely. Additionally, the building incorporates essential vertical services, such as gas, electricity, and plumbing systems, which are integrated into the architectural design to support the daily needs of the occupants.

Amenity Spaces

The design includes communal amenities that encourage interaction among residents. A rooftop terrace features a swimming pool, conference room, gym, and lounge area. These spaces provide opportunities for recreation and socializing, helping to create a sense of community in what is often a high-density living environment. The arrangement of these communal areas is carefully planned to balance the need for privacy in individual apartments with the benefits of social engagement.

The design effectively combines various elements of modern urban living, focusing on compact housing while also highlighting the importance of shared spaces.

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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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