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Eco-Friendly Spiral Tower Featuring Green Roof Systems and Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Yoonhae Choi, Donghoon Seo
Eco-Friendly Spiral Tower Featuring Green Roof Systems and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

A spiral structure adorned with lush green roofs and crafted from eco-friendly materials creates a dynamic living environment that seamlessly blends nature with urban habitation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a spiral design that facilitates natural ventilation and maximizes daylight throughout the building.
02
Incorporates extensive green roof systems that support biodiversity while enhancing insulation.
03
Features a central core that integrates building services, promoting efficient use of space and resources.
04
Employs environmentally friendly materials such as cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Includes vertical gardens on multiple levels, promoting a direct connection to nature for residents.
The Biophilia Tower is an architectural project that exemplifies the seamless integration of nature within urban environments. This structure is not merely a building; it serves as a conceptual framework that promotes sustainability and reflects a deeper connection between humanity and the natural world. The tower stands as a paradigm of contemporary architectural practice, showcasing how design can respond to environmental challenges while enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Functionally, the Biophilia Tower is designed to accommodate residential and communal spaces, thereby fostering a sense of community among its residents. The structure features multiple levels, each of which is carefully crafted to provide a balance of private and communal areas. The inclusion of green spaces such as vertical gardens and terraces underscores the project’s commitment to biophilic design, encouraging residents to engage with nature daily. By incorporating these elements, the tower not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the mental well-being of its inhabitants, providing refuge from the urban landscape.

The architectural design of the Biophilia Tower showcases a spiral form that is both visually engaging and functional. The twisting geometry of the structure allows for maximum natural light penetration while also facilitating natural ventilation throughout the building. Each level is thoughtfully organized to prioritize the comfort and experience of the residents. The central core serves as both structural support and a conduit for essential services, promoting efficiency in building operations.

Materiality plays a significant role in the overall design of the tower. Steel, glass, concrete, green roof systems, and water catchment technologies are combined to create a resilient and sustainable structure. Steel provides the framework necessary for a tall building, while glass facades offer transparency and connection to the external environment. Concrete elements contribute to thermal mass, helping regulate interior temperatures. The integration of green roofs and water catchment systems not only enhances building sustainability but also provides additional ecological benefits, allowing the tower to maintain a direct relationship with its environment.

What makes the Biophilia Tower particularly noteworthy is its holistic approach to urban living. By prioritizing ecological considerations and human experience, the tower redefines what it means to live in a city. It emphasizes adaptability, allowing spaces within the tower to serve multiple functions over time, which is crucial in an ever-evolving urban landscape. The thoughtful placement of gardens, communal areas, and active exchange zones promotes interaction among residents, enhancing community cohesion.

The significance of the Biophilia Tower extends beyond its immediate architectural attributes. It represents a shift towards responsible urban development, where buildings are seen not as isolated structures but as integral parts of the larger ecosystem. The project serves as a model for future architectural endeavors, illustrating how thoughtful design can positively influence environmental dynamics and foster healthier communities.

By engaging with the Biophilia Tower, interested individuals are encouraged to explore the unique architectural plans, sections, and design features that illustrate the project's innovative ideas. This exploration will provide deeper insights into how architecture can address both functional living and environmental stewardship, paving the way for future designs that prioritize sustainability and connectivity with nature.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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