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Fractal Structure Enhanced With Geotextiles for Efficient Urban Water Management

Author:
Hyunkyung Yoo
Fractal Structure Enhanced With Geotextiles for Efficient Urban Water Management

Project in-detail

Utilizing a fractal design and geotextiles, the facility maximizes rainwater harvesting while serving as a community hub dedicated to sustainability and environmental education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fractal design enhances rainwater collection efficiency through its natural form.
02
Geotextiles are integrated into the structure for advanced filtration and drainage.
03
Community spaces include a botanical garden designed to promote native biodiversity.
04
The facility's verticality allows for a minimal footprint while maximizing functionality.
05
Educational areas focus on urban hydrology and sustainability practices.
The City Rainwater Platform is an innovative architectural project designed to address urban flooding and enhance rainwater management in metropolitan areas. This facility combines functionality, sustainability, and community engagement, serving as both a rainwater harvesting and purification system and a public resource. It aims to offer a practical solution to increasing weather-related challenges faced by cities, particularly in response to climate change.

The design refers to biomimicry, drawing inspiration from natural forms, particularly tree structures, which facilitate water absorption. This architectural approach not only maximizes rainwater capture but also creates a visual connection to nature, emphasizing the relationship between urban habitats and environmental sustainability.

Unique Features of the Architectural Design

The City Rainwater Platform’s design is characterized by its vertical structure, mirroring a tree trunk, with branching elements that extend outward. This innovative form is integral to its functionality, allowing for efficient rainwater collection. The primary materials utilized in the construction include concrete, steel, glass, aluminum, sustainable composites, and geotextiles, each chosen for their durability, performance, and ecological benefits. These materials support the project's commitment to sustainability while also enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

The facility features multiple functional zones. Notable areas include rest spaces for community interaction, a botanical garden promoting biodiversity, an exhibition room for educational outreach, lecture spaces focused on sustainability, and research facilities for studying urban hydrology. The strategic organization of these spaces not only enhances the user experience but encourages community engagement in environmental issues.

Innovative Water Management Techniques

A key aspect of the City Rainwater Platform is its sophisticated water purification system. The facility employs a multistage process that includes coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, ensuring collected rainwater meets safety standards. This advanced system integrates seamlessly with the architectural design, demonstrating how architectural solutions can effectively address ecological concerns.

The project stands out due to its community-centric approach, which values public involvement and education alongside operational efficiency. The integration of greenery both internally and externally contributes to air purification and temperature regulation, subtly reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainable architecture.

By examining the City Rainwater Platform's architectural plans and sections, further insights can be gained into the innovative design ideas and practical applications implemented within the project. This exploration illuminates the importance of architecture in shaping resilient urban environments. Interested individuals are encouraged to review the detailed architectural designs to fully appreciate the project's vision and execution.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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