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Folding Urban Space with Spiral Rise and Vertical Efficiency

Authors:
Hefei Xu, Zeqian Lin, Mingyang Li
Folding Urban Space with Spiral Rise and Vertical Efficiency

Project in-detail

Utilizing a point-to-point folding concept, this urban development integrates a dual vertical traffic system and functional arrangements to minimize commuting distances between living and working spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a point-to-point folding concept to minimize travel distances.
02
Incorporates a dual vertical traffic system for efficient movement.
03
Strategically arranges living and working spaces within the same structure.
04
Employs horizontal mirroring of functional groups for better organization.
05
Focuses on reducing commuting times in a densely populated urban environment.

Fold Beijing is located between the Third and Sixth Ring Roads of Beijing, designed to tackle the challenges of urban density. With around 12.3 million residents, the area grapples with long commuting times. The design aims to improve the connection between living and working spaces by reducing travel distances through a unique folding framework that simplifies the urban environment.

Vertical Traffic Integration

The building features a dual vertical traffic system, enhancing movement throughout its height. This system blends traditional vertical connections, like elevators and stairs, with a spiral rise concept that connects various levels on a single plane. The combination allows easier access while addressing common challenges found in busy urban settings.

Functional Spatial Arrangement

An important aspect of Fold Beijing is how the spaces are arranged. Living areas are located close to workspaces, promoting easy movement and interaction between these zones. The design creates a clear vertical hierarchy that encourages smooth transitions, which helps to lessen the need for long commutes within the building. Mirroring functional groups horizontally adds to the organization and improves building management.

Architectural Expression

The design language of Fold Beijing emphasizes a focus on improving urban living. The folding structure not only adds visual interest but also serves practical needs by making efficient use of space. Consideration of factors such as light, accessibility, and circulation enhances comfort and functionality. This thoughtful approach addresses the demands of living in a large city.

The final outcome is a careful arrangement of spaces that promotes a high quality of life while accommodating the needs of its residents.

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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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