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Flipping Terraces and Solar Skin Enhance Vertical Living in a Sustainable Urban Environment

Authors:
Chiao-yun Fan, Lisha Chen
Flipping Terraces and Solar Skin Enhance Vertical Living in a Sustainable Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating flipping terraces and a solar skin, this skyscraper redefines urban space efficiency while providing essential auto-storage and vibrant community areas in densely populated Tokyo.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flipping terraces allow for dynamic outdoor spaces that adapt throughout the day.
02
A solar skin integrated into the facade generates renewable energy for building operations.
03
Vertical transportation systems minimize reliance on vehicle traffic in the urban landscape.
04
Green walls composed of soil-retaining materials contribute to local biodiversity.
05
The structure's footprint enhances space utilization in a densely populated urban area.

The Urban Storage Auto-Train Skyscraper is an innovative architectural project designed for the high-density urban environment of Tokyo, Japan. This structure addresses the pressing need for space optimization, integrating transportation and functional urban design within a vertical framework. With its multifaceted approach, the project enhances residential living while promoting sustainability and efficient use of land.

Innovative Multifunctionality
The Urban Storage skyscraper features a design that adapts to multiple functions throughout different times of the day. During the day, it serves as an effective auto-storage facility, while transitioning to a community-focused green space in the evening. The architectural composition includes a series of terraces that not only increase the useable area but also facilitate natural light access and visual connections to the environment. This functionality supports the demands of urban dwellers who seek convenience while engaging with their surroundings.

Unique Design Approaches
The project's distinctive design elements set it apart from conventional skyscrapers. The implementation of a flipping slab mechanism allows for a dynamic spatial arrangement that can alter configurations based on specific needs. This flexibility optimizes space usage, providing a versatile environment tailored to activities ranging from vehicle storage to public events. Additionally, the building incorporates vertical transportation systems, thereby reducing reliance on conventional car traffic and enhancing accessibility throughout the structure.

Environmental Integration
The design prioritizes environmental sustainability through the incorporation of green roofs and walls that provide insulation and improve air quality. These elements contribute to the urban ecosystem by fostering local biodiversity. Also notable are the mechanisms for water management, which recycle rainwater for irrigation purposes, thereby promoting water conservation within the urban context. By integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar panels, the project emphasizes a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Urban Storage Auto-Train Skyscraper, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Engaging with these materials will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas and methodologies that define this project.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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