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Dual-Skin Facade Integrating Greenery in A Vertical Community Space

Authors:
Marah Altarawneh, Nawras Almasri
Dual-Skin Facade Integrating Greenery in A Vertical Community Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating a dual-skin facade and integrated greenery, the design fosters community interaction while addressing sustainability in a vertical mixed-use environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a double-skin facade that enhances energy efficiency and integrates natural ventilation.
02
Features terraced balconies that promote urban biodiversity through dedicated green spaces.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Integrates public spaces within the vertical design to foster community interaction.
05
Employs a pixelated massing strategy to create distinct volumes while maintaining visual connectivity.
The Datum is an architectural project located in Frankfurt, Germany, designed to enhance urban living through a vertical approach. The structure stands as a modern interpretation of community-focused living, integrating residential, commercial, and public spaces within a single high-rise. The building's design is framed around a central concept that emphasizes the importance of community interaction, accessibility, and sustainability.

Innovative Design Approaches

The design distinguishes itself through a pixelated massing strategy that creates distinct volume divisions, accommodating various functions while maintaining visual connectivity with the urban landscape. Each volume operates independently, forming a cohesive architectural identity that is responsive to its surroundings. The stepping facades not only contribute to the aesthetic quality but also enhance the experience of movement and space within the building.

The use of a double-skin facade constructed primarily of glass and steel allows for maximized natural light while minimizing energy consumption. This material choice also aids in reducing the urban heat island effect, a critical consideration in high-density urban environments. Additionally, the integration of greenery through vertical gardens and terraced balconies underscores the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity.

Functional Integration

The architectural design of The Datum includes a multifaceted program, providing office spaces, residential units, a library, and areas designated for cultural activities. This mix of functions promotes a dynamic urban experience, allowing residents and visitors to engage with the community through multifunctional spaces. The building’s public areas are organized around a central circulation ribbon, ensuring easy access while promoting social interaction.

The layout encourages pedestrian flow through interconnected public spaces, integrating outdoor gardens and terraces that foster community engagement. The design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that different groups can navigate the building without barriers, thus creating an inclusive urban environment.

Transparency and Community Interaction

Another key element of The Datum is its emphasis on transparency, both visually and functionally. The extensive use of glazing in the facade promotes a sense of openness, allowing occupants to enjoy views of the surrounding city while enhancing interactions with the outside environment. This relationship further reinforces the building's role as a community hub.

The architectural design encourages social interactions through communal spaces, which are strategically dispersed throughout the structure. These areas serve as places where residents and visitors can convene, collaborate, and engage in cultural activities, reinforcing the concept of a vertical community.

Explore the project presentation to uncover more details on architectural plans, sections, designs, and the innovative ideas that shape The Datum. The integration of unique approaches within this architectural project stands as a valuable reference for future developments in urban environments.
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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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