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Living Wall Integration with Steel Framework in a Biophilic Community Space

Living Wall Integration with Steel Framework in a Biophilic Community Space
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A biophilic community space incorporates a living wall and steel framework, seamlessly blending sustainability with urban functionality to enhance social interaction in Hong Kong.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a living wall with native plants to enhance biodiversity in an urban setting.
02
Utilizes steel framework for structural efficiency and flexibility in design.
03
Features expansive glass panels that maximize natural light and visual connection to the outdoors.
04
Incorporates rainwater collection systems for irrigation and sustainable water management.
05
Promotes community interaction through strategically designed public spaces and cultural facilities.

## Overview

The "Breathing City" project aims to reinvigorate an aging district in Hong Kong by integrating natural elements into the urban fabric. This initiative focuses on creating a biophilic community that enhances social interaction and promotes environmental sustainability, while acknowledging the area’s historical and industrial significance.

## Community-Centric Engagement

The design prioritizes community engagement through the inclusion of shared spaces that facilitate artistic and cultural events. The layout features communal facilities intended to foster collaboration and local traditions. By encouraging residents to gather and participate in these spaces, the project highlights the importance of social interaction within a dense urban context.

## Material and Sustainability Considerations

Diverse materials are employed to address both aesthetic and functional requirements. The structural integrity is provided by steel, while wood finishes add warmth to interior spaces. Green facade systems, featuring living walls, contribute to improved air quality and urban cooling. Large glass panels facilitate natural light and connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, the incorporation of solar panels and rainwater collection systems reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, reducing the ecological impact of urban living.

The design incorporates organic forms, characterized by flowing lines and vibrant colors, to enhance the visual appeal of public spaces. Mixed-use facilities are strategically distributed throughout the site to accommodate various functions, including living, leisure, and communal areas, thereby fostering a multi-faceted urban environment. The emphasis on biophilic design enhances the interiors, promoting a strong connection to nature and allowing for flexibility in space utilization.

The project distinguishes itself through its adaptive reuse of existing structures, honoring Hong Kong’s architectural heritage while adapting to contemporary needs. This thoughtful integration not only supports sustainability but also reinforces a sense of place and continuity within the urban landscape.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
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