Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Green Spaces Enhanced by Louvered Facades and Sustainable Materials for Urban Living

Authors:
Yushan Jiang, Shuang Chen, Hengyuan Yang
Elevated Green Spaces Enhanced by Louvered Facades and Sustainable Materials for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with louvered wooden facades and integrated green spaces, the design fosters community interaction and supports urban sustainability through a mixed-use residential and commercial environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with louvered facades that enhance natural ventilation and light.
02
Integrates urban farming on multiple rooftop gardens to promote sustainability.
03
Features a mixed-level layout that combines residential and commercial spaces seamlessly.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact.
"Oasis in the Void" is an architectural project situated in Lagos, Nigeria, designed to address the pressing issues of urban density and socio-economic challenges. This mixed-use development merges residential, commercial, and community spaces within a compact footprint, reflecting a contemporary approach to urban living.

The project is organized into several levels, with the ground floor dedicated to commercial activities, including local businesses and markets, while upper floors contain affordable housing units. This configuration not only optimizes land resources but also facilitates a vibrant street-level atmosphere. The vertical design emphasizes connectivity, allowing residents and visitors to interact within a diverse environment.

Sustainable principles are interwoven throughout the project, which incorporates green roofs, urban gardens, and rainwater harvesting systems. These features minimize environmental impact and promote local agriculture, thereby supporting community resilience and food security.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design of "Oasis in the Void" incorporates a series of innovative elements that distinguish it from traditional urban developments. One of the key aspects is the use of wooden louvered screens on the façade, providing shading while allowing natural ventilation and daylight into the building. This solution enhances thermal performance while contributing to the aesthetic character of the structure.

The incorporation of communal spaces is another defining feature. Balconies and terraces are designed to facilitate outdoor activities, encouraging social interactions among residents. The project emphasizes flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt over time to meet the changing needs of the community.

Environmental sustainability is further enhanced through the integration of green spaces and permeable surfaces, which help manage stormwater runoff and mitigate heat island effects. By prioritizing biodiversity and ecological balance, "Oasis in the Void" actively contributes to a healthier urban environment.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The choice of materials plays a significant role in the overall functionality and sustainability of the project. Concrete blocks provide structural resilience while wooden elements deliver warmth and texture. Large glass panels enhance visual connectivity between interior spaces and the surrounding environment, promoting a sense of openness.

The internal layout includes a network of pathways that guide movement throughout the building, fostering accessibility and encouraging community engagement. The design focuses on user experience, with thoughtfully placed amenities that cater to the needs of diverse residents.

By integrating commercial and residential functions, "Oasis in the Void" serves as a model for future urban developments, demonstrating how thoughtful design can enhance community spaces while addressing practical living requirements. To explore the architectural plans, sections, and design details further, interested readers are encouraged to review the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of this multifaceted architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy