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Living Walls and Natural Ventilation Define A Sustainable Urban Community Structure

Authors:
Anthony Penna, Allison Devlin
Living Walls and Natural Ventilation Define A Sustainable Urban Community Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with living walls and utilizing natural ventilation, this urban residential project integrates sustainable materials to foster community interaction in a dense city landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes living walls to enhance biodiversity and air quality.
02
Incorporates natural ventilation shafts for effective airflow management.
03
Features communal terraces to promote social interaction among residents.
04
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for improved sustainability.
05
Includes a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial efficiency and aesthetics.
Vertical Village is a residential architectural project located in Bunker Hill, Los Angeles. The project addresses the critical issue of affordable housing in urban areas by proposing a high-rise structure that efficiently utilizes vertical space. By converting an existing parking facility into a livable environment, the design represents a progressive approach to urban housing, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement.

The primary function of Vertical Village is to provide a mix of residential units and communal spaces that promote social interaction while maintaining privacy. The design incorporates various living spaces, including studios, one-bedroom apartments, and communal facilities such as shared kitchens and gardens. By focusing on adaptability and flexibility, the project enables residents to personalize their living spaces according to their needs.

Efficient use of materials is one of the main distinguishing features of Vertical Village. The project predominantly features reinforced concrete and incorporates large glass panels that enhance natural lighting and offer views of the surrounding cityscape. Steel is utilized in structural elements to ensure stability, while living green façades contribute to improved air quality and aesthetic appeal. The project also employs advanced sustainability strategies, including natural ventilation systems and energy generation from renewable sources, to minimize environmental impact.

Community integration is another defining characteristic of the Vertical Village. The design encourages interaction through thoughtfully placed communal areas that serve as gathering spaces for residents. The use of horizontal terraces not only provides private outdoor spaces but also creates an opportunity for urban agriculture and green landscaping, enhancing the overall quality of life.

While many urban housing projects often focus solely on maximizing density, Vertical Village uniquely emphasizes community resilience by fostering connections among residents. This is achieved through the deliberate incorporation of shared amenities that facilitate social engagement, making the project more than just a collection of units.

For further insights into the architectural strategies and planning of Vertical Village, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas presented. Understanding these elements offers a comprehensive view of how this project effectively addresses urban living challenges while prioritizing sustainability and community.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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