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Elevated Green Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Sustainable Materials

Authors:
Elisa Dellarossa, Federica Filippone, Giulia Filippone, Salvatore Cicero
Elevated Green Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber and designed with elevated green spaces, this high-rise structure addresses urban density and climate resilience while providing multifunctional community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes space and elevates green areas.
04
Integrates advanced mobility solutions for multidirectional movement within the structure.
05
Designed to adapt to climate challenges with strategic flood-resilient measures.
The architectural design project “Top City” redefines urban environments in response to challenges posed by climate change, particularly anticipated sea-level rise. The project incorporates a series of interconnected skyscrapers that elevate essential functions traditionally found on the ground level to higher elevations. This innovative approach creates a vertical urban landscape that diminishes land use while improving resilience and sustainability.

Spatial organization within “Top City” emphasizes a unique verticality, enabling a rethinking of typical urban densities and functionalities. The layout integrates residential, commercial, and public spaces in a modular manner, allowing for flexibility and adaptability as environmental conditions evolve. This design promotes a harmonious coexistence of nature and urban living, encapsulated within a singular architectural framework.

Dynamic Vertical Integration
The design features a system of towers that coexist through horizontal bridges, allowing for efficient movement between various functions and enhancing accessibility. The incorporation of green roofs and public parks within these structures not only provides recreational space but also contributes to biodiversity and the mitigation of urban heat. The ability to incorporate these elements into vertical structures is a distinct attribute of the project, offering a new reference for urban planning and development in flood-prone areas.

Innovative Mobility Solutions
A key design element is the advanced mobility infrastructure, which reinterprets traditional elevator systems to allow multidirectional travel within the towering structures. This innovation addresses the logistical challenges associated with navigating high-rise developments and enhances user experience. By facilitating vertical and horizontal movements, the project optimizes connectivity among its various levels and functions.

Encouraging Exploration
“Top City” stands as a notable example of contemporary architectural thought, merging ecological viability with urban functionality. For a comprehensive understanding of its architectural designs, including detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the design strategies employed in this forward-looking urban endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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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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