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Harmonizing Glass Facades and Reinforced Concrete with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Authors:
Abdelrahman Elmansoury, Turki Asiri, Sultan Abdulsattar, Khalid Al zahrani
Harmonizing Glass Facades and Reinforced Concrete with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

Employing a double-skin facade of high-performance glass and vertical gardens, this sustainable development integrates its reinforced concrete structure with the surrounding landscape, serving as a multifunctional space for commerce and hospitality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a double-skin facade to enhance energy efficiency and light regulation.
02
Integrates vertical gardens at multiple levels, promoting biodiversity and aesthetics.
03
Utilizes reinforced concrete for structural integrity while minimizing visual bulk.
04
Features rainwater harvesting systems to address local water resource challenges.
05
Incorporates a steeply angled roof design to optimize solar panel placement and energy capture.
The Bathra Tower is an architectural project located in Taif, Saudi Arabia, designed to harmonize with the natural landscape and local culture. This mixed-use structure combines commercial, office, and hospitality functions, serving both residents and visitors in the area. The design is influenced by the immediate geographical context, taking cues from the surrounding Mount Bathra. This integration with nature is a key characteristic of the project, which aims to establish a dialogue between the built environment and the landscape.

Sustainable design practices are central to the Bathra Tower's architecture. Energy efficiency is prioritized through the use of high-performance materials and renewable energy sources. The building employs a double-skin facade to regulate temperature and maximize natural light, reducing dependency on artificial lighting and climate control systems. Implementing rainwater collection systems further enhances the project's sustainability by addressing water resource challenges in the region.

Innovative Architectural Approaches

Unique design elements distinguish the Bathra Tower from similar architectural projects. The facade is characterized by its dynamic glass panels, which reflect sunlight and the surrounding environment, creating an ever-changing visual experience. This approach minimizes the building's visual impact while prioritizing energy efficiency.

The tower’s layout integrates vertical gardens and terraces at various levels, providing green spaces that enhance biodiversity and improve air quality. These features are not only aesthetically pleasing but also play a role in the building's thermal performance.

Functional Outline of Spaces

The Bathra Tower’s design efficiently divides spaces to cater to different functions. The ground floor includes retail spaces and open public areas, fostering community engagement. Above, the integration of office spaces with hotel accommodations is designed to promote synergy between professional and leisure activities.

On higher levels, the building features a sky restaurant with panoramic views of Taif and the surrounding mountains. This space is designed to draw residents and visitors alike, creating a unique dining experience that highlights the natural beauty of the area.

The Bathra Tower represents a thoughtful architectural response to contemporary challenges, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability while remaining deeply rooted in its local context. This project not only fulfills its functional purpose but also serves as a landmark within Taif.

For more insights into the Bathra Tower project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements, explore the project presentation further. Understanding these architectural ideas will provide a deeper appreciation of the innovative approaches taken in this significant development.
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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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