Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Modular Urban Tower Framed in Reinforced Concrete with Versatile Cast Panels for Flexible Living Spaces

Author:
Ben Wilson
Modular Urban Tower Framed in Reinforced Concrete with Versatile Cast Panels for Flexible Living Spaces
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Framed in modular components of reinforced concrete and designed with adaptable cast panels, the urban infill tower addresses housing challenges by providing flexible living arrangements in the densely populated context of Wan Chai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed entirely with reinforced concrete to enhance structural stability.
02
Facilitates modular living arrangements adaptable for both individuals and groups.
03
Showcases a facade featuring a combination of textured cast panels and glazed windows.
04
Designed to maximize natural light and ventilation through strategic window placement.
05
Integrates communal spaces to foster community interaction among residents.

### Project Overview

Located on Johnston Road in Wan Chai, Hong Kong, the urban infill tower addresses the acute demand for residential space within a densely populated area. Covering a site area of 94.47 square meters, the design seeks to balance aesthetic considerations with functional adaptability, catering to the evolving needs of urban residents amidst the context of a vibrant city.

### Modular Design and Adaptability

The design employs a "Modular Morpher" strategy, utilizing prefabrication to offer flexibility in spatial distribution. This modular system allows for a variety of living arrangements, accommodating from single-occupancy units to larger multi-tenant configurations as required. The vertical structure integrates both private and communal living spaces, facilitating diverse interactions among residents while ensuring privacy.

The floor plan emphasizes efficient use of space, featuring components such as living areas, kitchens, and versatile bedroom configurations, with a maximum gross floor area of 100 square meters per unit. This layout supports various occupancy models, including options for dormitory-style living that can host multiple residents, considerably enhancing the functionality of urban living spaces.

### Materiality and Facade Design

The tower’s facade is characterized by an innovative combination of materials that enhance both durability and visual appeal. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing stability, while strategically placed glazed windows maximize natural light and offer views of the surrounding urban landscape. The interplay of cast concrete panels and varying window sizes creates a dynamic facade that not only distinguishes the building from its neighbors but also contributes to its overall aesthetic.

This approach to materiality reflects a commitment to both sustainability and the creation of a welcoming environment. The textured facade is designed to engage the urban context effectively, fostering a sense of place and enhancing the overall user experience through thoughtful architectural articulation.

### Urban Integration and Contextual Sensitivity

Positioned strategically at 106 Johnston Road, the tower benefits from its proximity to essential services, public transportation, and recreational facilities, thereby appealing to a diverse resident demographic. The architectural design acknowledges the surrounding urban density, positioning the structure to create a noticeable yet harmonious presence within the existing streetscape.

The project’s integration into the neighborhood emphasizes its role in enhancing the local urban fabric, aligning with broader goals of improving liveability and community connectivity in Hong Kong. This careful consideration of context ensures that the tower serves as both a functional living environment and a contributor to the dynamic character of Wan Chai.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in