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Living Walls and Sustainable Wood Create A Biophilic Urban Community

Authors:
Ece Boysal Skardelli, Necati şeker, Ece Ilayda Yoruk, Zeynep Ecem İnci̇kli̇
Living Walls and Sustainable Wood Create A Biophilic Urban Community

Project in-detail

Incorporating living walls and sustainable wood elements, this urban community development emphasizes biodiversity and environmental sensitivity while providing essential residential and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates living walls to enhance biodiversity within urban settings.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetics.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design for optimal spatial efficiency.
04
Includes dedicated areas for community farming and agricultural activities.
05
Employs advanced stormwater management systems to promote sustainability.
The architectural project "The Crown Shyness" is situated in Beirut, Lebanon, and serves as a contemporary model for urban living that integrates ecological design principles with functional residential and communal spaces. The project presents a comprehensive approach to urban architecture, addressing the necessity for sustainable development through innovative design solutions. It focuses on enhancing community interactions while promoting biodiversity within urban environments.

A central feature of "The Crown Shyness" is its spatial organization, which employs radial symmetry to facilitate movement and connectivity among different sections of the project. The layout ensures easy access to communal areas, fostering social interaction among residents. The design incorporates both vertical gardens and horizontal green spaces, emphasizing the significance of nature in urban settings. This integration aims not only to beautify the environment but also to provide opportunities for urban farming and enhance well-being.

Unique Functional Aspects
The project is distinguished by its dedication to promoting sustainability and resilience. One notable design approach is the inclusion of cantilevered terraces, which provide shaded outdoor areas for residents and create visually engaging aesthetics. The use of green roofs and living walls is also a highlighted feature, resulting in improved energy efficiency and reduced heat absorption within the built environment. The design considers stormwater management through the implementation of innovative systems that recycle rainwater and manage runoff, aligning with contemporary practices for environmental sustainability.

In addition to the green elements, "The Crown Shyness" focuses on community-oriented spaces. The architectural design includes shared gardens and agricultural facilities, encouraging residents to engage in collective farming activities. This novel concept not only supports food production but also reinforces social ties within the community. The thoughtful arrangement of commercial areas alongside residential spaces promotes a balanced lifestyle, allowing easy access to essential services.

Architectural Innovation and Materiality
The materiality of the project plays a critical role in its architectural identity. The primary materials employed are glass, steel, concrete, and sustainable wood, each chosen for their structural integrity and environmental performance. Glass facades facilitate natural light penetration, enhancing the internal living environment while minimizing the need for artificial lighting. Steel and concrete provide durability, whereas sustainable wood introduces warmth and an organic touch to outdoor areas.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements reveals the thoughtful consideration given to both functionality and aesthetics. The architecture of "The Crown Shyness" emphasizes a cohesive relationship between built and natural environments, setting it apart from other urban projects.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, it is recommended to explore the comprehensive project presentation, including architectural plans and sections, to gain insight into the detailed design elements that make "The Crown Shyness" a noteworthy contribution to urban architecture.
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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
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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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