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Floating Greenhouses and Triangular Glass Facade in a Sustainable Urban Farming Initiative

Authors:
Nuoyan Xu, Qingfeng Liang, Yongruo Xue
Floating Greenhouses and Triangular Glass Facade in a Sustainable Urban Farming Initiative

Project in-detail

With its floating greenhouses and a facade of triangular glass panels, this urban initiative integrates sustainable farming practices within a communal marketplace, revitalizing agricultural engagement in an industrial context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical farming integrated into a communal marketplace enhances local agricultural access.
02
Floating greenhouses utilize passive solar heating for efficient crop production.
03
Triangular glass panels provide optimal light distribution while minimizing energy use.
04
Cross-laminated timber construction promotes sustainability and carbon reduction.
05
Community-focused spaces support educational programs on sustainable farming practices.
The Agricultural Rehabilitation Tower is an architectural project located in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China. Spanning an area of 1,640 square meters, the design combines elements of agriculture and urban infrastructure, fostering a new paradigm in agricultural efficiency and sustainability.

This project serves dual functions as both an agro-ecological research institute and market. It aims to promote local agricultural practices while addressing the challenges posed by urbanization, thereby reinvigorating forgotten industrial areas. The integration of vertical farming tactics within the tower maximizes land use and enhances productivity, representing a shift towards more modern agricultural methods.

Unique Design Approaches

The design of the Agricultural Rehabilitation Tower reflects an innovative approach to vertical farming. Floating greenhouses and urban farming spaces are seamlessly interwoven into the building’s structure, allowing for the efficient cultivation of crops. This vertical model is strategically employed to conserve space while increasing agricultural output.

The facade of the building features a series of triangular glass panels that encapsulate the space. This choice of material not only ensures ample natural light penetration but also enhances thermal performance through passive heating. The incorporation of timber and reinforced concrete provides structural stability while fostering an environmentally conscious approach to material selection. The presence of greenery across the facade integrates nature into the architectural fabric, promoting biodiversity and improving the urban ecosystem.

Collaborative Community Spaces

An essential aspect of the project is its dedication to community engagement. The design includes varied communal areas such as restaurants and shopping facilities that emphasize local produce. These spaces encourage interaction among residents, creating a synergy between agricultural producers and consumers.

Furthermore, dedicated areas for educational outreach facilitate knowledge transfer about sustainable farming practices. These community-oriented features serve to enhance public awareness and participation in agricultural initiatives.

The Agricultural Rehabilitation Tower stands as a significant advancement in the representation of architecture that bridges industrial and agricultural paradigms. The project combines practical functionality with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that urban agriculture can coexist within metropolitan frameworks.

To explore further details about the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts that define this project, please review the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding.
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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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