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Photocatalytic Titanium Facade and Green Roofs in Prefabricated Urban Housing

Authors:
Joanna Ziembowska, Natalia Kulesza, Agata Kobus, Filip Starzomski
Photocatalytic Titanium Facade and Green Roofs in Prefabricated Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating a photocatalytic titanium facade and lush green roofs, this prefabricated urban housing exemplifies a sustainable approach to addressing air quality while providing a modern living environment for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a photocatalytic titanium facade that actively reduces air pollutants.
02
Incorporates bio-diverse green roofs to enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater.
03
Utilizes prefabricated modules for quick assembly and minimized construction waste.
04
Designed with natural skylights for optimal daylight and ventilation throughout the interiors.
05
Emphasizes versatility with adaptative living spaces tailored for community engagement.
The project under analysis presents a contemporary residential solution situated in Warsaw, Poland, designed to address critical environmental challenges, specifically air pollution. The architectural design embodies a vision of sustainable living, providing a modular housing concept intended to enhance residents' quality of life while simultaneously contributing positively to the surrounding environment.

This initiative revolves around the idea of prefabrication, a process that allows the construction of buildings from pre-manufactured sections, reducing waste and construction time. The result is a community-oriented living space that prioritizes both functionality and environmental responsibility. By incorporating advanced materials and innovative design strategies, this project aims to serve not only as a residence but also as a model for future urban development in contested urban environments.

At the heart of this architectural endeavor is the function of providing safe, healthy living spaces amid the challenges posed by urban pollution. The spaces are designed to be adaptable, catering to varying family structures and needs while promoting a sense of community through shared areas. The layout incorporates essential amenities, such as kitchens and living rooms, intended to foster social interaction among residents.

The design details merit particular attention. The use of concrete in the structure ensures durability while supporting the weight of additional green design elements, including bio-diverse green roofs. These roofs are more than just an aesthetic choice; they contribute to energy efficiency and stormwater management, enhancing the ecological performance of the building. Furthermore, naturally sourced skylights punctuate the design, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into living spaces, reducing the need for artificial lighting and promoting a healthier atmosphere indoors.

A standout feature of this project is the façade, treated with titanium dioxide, a material known for its photocatalytic properties. This design choice leads to a significant reduction in airborne pollutants, representing an innovative approach to urban architecture that actively improves local air quality. This inclusion reflects a commitment to not only creating an impactful living space but one that engages with the surrounding urban context in a meaningful way.

The architectural design also embraces energy independence through the installation of photovoltaic panels. These panels harness solar energy, providing power to the building and minimizing the environmental impact of residents' energy consumption. The thoughtful positioning of the façade allows for maximum exposure to sunlight, enhancing the building’s performance and sustainability.

The overall architectural composition presents a clear narrative about modern living in urban centers. The design doesn't merely focus on providing shelter but emphasizes creating a healthier living environment. This project serves as an essential example of how architecture can address pressing environmental issues while simultaneously meeting the housing needs of urban populations. Each element, from materials to spatial organization, aligns with the goal of promoting well-being and resilience in an urban context.

For those interested in understanding the full scope of this project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas, a deeper exploration of the presentation is encouraged. This will provide further insights into the unique approaches employed and the potential impact of this residential project on future urban developments.
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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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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