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Ecologically Designed Habitat Featuring Vertical Gardens and Reinforced Concrete Facades

Authors:
Minhan Kim, Min Jun Kim, Ayeon Lee
Ecologically Designed Habitat Featuring Vertical Gardens and Reinforced Concrete Facades

Project in-detail

With a focus on vertical gardens and the use of reinforced concrete, the design integrates urban living with ecological habitats, providing a sustainable residential environment that fosters community interaction and biodiversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical gardens into multiple levels for enhanced biodiversity.
02
Utilizes reinforced concrete for structural stability and expansive open spaces.
03
Features wildlife corridors that promote safe animal movement throughout the site.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and minimize energy use.
05
Incorporates community spaces designed to encourage social interactions and environmental education.
The Buffer Blending project offers an innovative approach to urban architecture that merges human living spaces with natural ecosystems. This design addresses the challenges of biodiversity loss and provides safe interaction environments for both people and wildlife. The architectural strategy prioritizes ecological sustainability while fulfilling urban residential needs.

The core concept centers around creating buffer zones that facilitate a transition between urban environments and natural habitats. By incorporating these zones into the architectural design, the project promotes coexistence rather than separation, recognizing the importance of enhancing biodiversity in urban areas.

Spatially, the design showcases multiple levels with open communal spaces that encourage social interaction. The inclusion of vertical gardens supports biodiversity and introduces plant life into the architectural fabric, establishing green facades that not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also improve air quality. Natural sight lines are carefully arranged to minimize visual barriers, fostering engagement with the surrounding environment.

Innovative Material Use

The architectural design employs a variety of materials that reflect both function and context. Reinforced concrete is utilized for structural elements, allowing for flexibility in space configuration. Glass is strategically integrated to maximize daylight and create transparency between interior and exterior environments. Brick is included for its thermal mass and textural qualities, aligning with local architectural styles. Metal grills further add to the project’s security measures while permitting wildlife movement and light penetration. Green roof systems are an essential feature, promoting stormwater management and enhancing urban biodiversity.

Ecological and Social Integration

What distinguishes the Buffer Blending project from many urban designs is its focus on ecological and social integration. The project actively incorporates habitats that provide shelter for various wildlife species while also enabling residents to experience nature within an urban context. The design is adaptable, catering to the changing needs of the community while maintaining ecological balance.

By prioritizing shared spaces, the project fosters community engagement and environmental education, encouraging residents to participate in preserving biodiversity. This focus on interaction enhances the quality of life while promoting sustainable practices among local inhabitants.

In summary, the Buffer Blending project stands out in its unique approach to marrying urban architecture with ecological principles. It offers valuable insights, particularly in defining the role of architecture in fostering biodiversity. For a more thorough understanding of its architectural plans and innovative design strategies, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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