Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Natural Stone Walls Embrace Green Roofs for Sustainable Living

Author:
Samia Shahzad
Natural Stone Walls Embrace Green Roofs for Sustainable Living
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Natural stone walls and a green roof provide an efficient climate solution while integrating a grey water recycling system for sustainable living in this contemporary residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural stone walls enhance thermal regulation throughout the home.
02
Angled windows minimize direct sunlight and optimize daylighting.
03
A green roof supports local vegetation and promotes biodiversity.
04
Grey water recycling system irrigates the roof garden efficiently.
05
Solar panels are discreetly placed to maximize energy efficiency.

MIRCO HOME is a residential design focused on integrating with the natural environment while promoting sustainability and comfort. Located in a landscape that encourages ecological balance, the home serves as a functional living space where the indoor and outdoor experiences connect. The concept centers on minimizing environmental impact and fostering a strong bond between the occupants and the surrounding nature.

Layout and Spatial Organization

The interior of MIRCO HOME is thoughtfully divided into private and common areas. This separation creates distinct zones within the home while still allowing for openness. The arrangement enhances movement and interaction among residents, making shared spaces more inviting. This careful planning focuses on creating a harmonious living environment, where each area fits together to serve the needs of its inhabitants.

Natural Light Management

Passive design principles are a key feature of the home. Angled windows have been used to limit direct sunlight, which helps control indoor temperatures and prevents overheating. By positioning these windows on the west and east sides, the design takes advantage of natural light while minimizing excess heat. This approach allows for a bright interior that remains comfortable throughout the day.

Sustainable Features

MIRCO HOME includes various sustainable features. A green roof supports plant growth and contributes to local biodiversity, adding a natural element to the home's design. Additionally, a water feature located at the front improves the air quality and provides cooling through evaporation. The home also incorporates a grey water collection system that recycles water from kitchen appliances for use in irrigation, highlighting a commitment to water conservation.

Material Selection

Natural stone is used for the walls of the home, providing both aesthetic value and effective temperature regulation. This choice enhances the visual appeal while also ensuring comfort. Solar panels placed on the rear facade support energy efficiency without disrupting the overall look of the property.

The design incorporates thoughtful details, such as the water feature, which enriches the home's environment. Its visual and auditory elements draw residents closer to nature, enhancing the calm atmosphere and overall experience within and around the house.

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