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Connecting Urban Life with Mountain and Valley Elements in a Mixed-Use High-Rise

Authors:
Tianyi Li, Yining Luo
Connecting Urban Life with Mountain and Valley Elements in a Mixed-Use High-Rise

Project in-detail

Integrating mountain and valley motifs, the mixed-use high-rise in downtown Phoenix offers a unique architectural response to urban connectivity while providing diverse residential and commercial spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Defined "mountain" and "valley" motifs create a direct connection to the surrounding geography.
02
Residential units wrap around a central core for optimal light and views.
03
Integrated green spaces serve as community hubs for events and gatherings.
04
Functions as a transportation hub with easy access to light rail and public transit.
05
Emphasizes urban connectivity, enhancing the relationship between downtown and suburban areas.

YEARNTOPIA is a mixed-use high-rise development located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, designed to enhance urban living through a thoughtful integration of residential and commercial spaces. The project aims to connect the energy of downtown with the surrounding suburban landscape, reflecting recent changes in zoning regulations that encourage taller buildings in this area. The structure features a cuboid form that rises smoothly, embodying both functionality and a clear connection to the city.

Defined "Mountain" and "Valley" Elements

The design includes prominent themes of "mountain" and "valley," which establish a visual and conceptual link to the natural geography of Phoenix. These features not only add an interesting aesthetic but also create a narrative that aligns the building with its surroundings. By incorporating these elements, the project harmonizes modern design with the local landscape, reinforcing the connection to the environment.

Residential Layout and Views

The residential spaces are organized around a central core, allowing each unit to enjoy views from multiple sides. This arrangement maximizes natural light and fosters a spacious living experience. Careful attention to layout ensures that functionality is prioritized, providing residents with access to essential amenities while cultivating a sense of community within the building.

Green Spaces and Community Engagement

Green areas are thoughtfully integrated into the development, contributing to ecological sustainability and serving as important community spaces. Designed to host events like art exhibitions and musical performances, these areas encourage interaction among residents and visitors. By incorporating nature into the urban setting, the project enhances the quality of life in the city and promotes well-being.

Transportation Hub Features

YEARNTOPIA also functions as a transportation hub, including facilities for light rail access, bus stops, and bicycle storage. This design choice emphasizes accessibility and supports a shift towards sustainable transport options. By making it easier for residents to navigate the city, the project aims to reduce reliance on personal vehicles, fostering a more connected community.

The façade is characterized by a rhythmic interplay of light and shadow that highlights the building's height. This attention to detail adds visual interest and contributes to the surrounding urban environment, creating a lasting impression while enhancing the everyday experience for those who interact with the space.

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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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