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Photocatalytic Façade Enhancing Air Quality in a Vertical Green Space

Authors:
Jannatun Nayeem Nowshin, Naorin Tabassum Chowdhury, Farzana Haque, Sruti Srabonti
Photocatalytic Façade Enhancing Air Quality in a Vertical Green Space
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Utilizing a titanium dioxide-coated façade for photocatalytic air purification, the structure effectively addresses urban pollution while integrating greenery throughout its vertical form.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a titanium dioxide coating for effective air purification.
02
Processes up to 3 million cubic meters of air daily.
03
Incorporates dense vegetation to enhance internal air quality.
04
Collects and recycles grey water for sustainable use.
05
Features a circular design for optimal aerodynamic efficiency.

The Breathing Tower is an innovative structure designed to combat air pollution in urban areas, particularly in cities like Beijing, known for their significant air quality issues. Positioned within a densely populated setting, the tower integrates sustainability with architecture to create an environment that not only purifies the air but also enhances the urban landscape. The core idea is to replicate natural processes, utilizing solar energy and advanced techniques to support a healthier living space for city residents.

Architectural Concept

The Breathing Tower's design focuses on environmental responsibility at its core. Its façade functions as an active air filter, capturing pollutants before they enter the building. The outer coating of titanium dioxide enables a process called photocatalysis, which breaks down harmful substances into benign by-products such as carbon dioxide and water. This method supports the overall goal of improving air quality while demonstrating a commitment to ecological practices.



Interior and Vegetation Design

Inside the Breathing Tower, void spaces facilitate airflow and create a breathable atmosphere for occupants. The design incorporates dense vegetation to both enhance aesthetics and improve functionality. This greenery helps regulate oxygen levels, contributing to a healthier internal climate. The combination of natural elements within the architecture not only improves air quality but also creates a visually calming environment for those inside.



Water Collection System

The water collection system is another essential aspect of the Breathing Tower's sustainable approach. Filtered water from various internal processes is collected and reused, minimizing waste and maximizing resource efficiency. This recycling of grey water aligns with the tower’s goal of sustainability, ensuring that the building functions with a lower environmental impact through thoughtful design choices.



Aerodynamic Efficiency

The structure’s form is designed with aerodynamic efficiency in mind. Its circular shape allows for a 300-degree intake of air, enabling the tower to process up to 3 million cubic meters of air daily. This capacity illustrates the building’s role in addressing urban air pollution effectively. The architecture not only provides significant volumes of clean air but also emphasizes the interaction between the building and its surrounding environment.

The Breathing Tower exemplifies an approach that combines advanced technology with natural integration, creating a space that supports the health of both people and the planet.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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