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Residential Tower Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Integrated Urban Agriculture Systems

Author:
Amir Adibmanesh
Residential Tower Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Integrated Urban Agriculture Systems

Project in-detail

This residential tower seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber panels with vertical farming and community gardens, creating a sustainable living environment that redefines urban housing in the heart of Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The tower incorporates a hydroponic farming system that allows residents to grow fresh produce on-site, reducing reliance on external food sources.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized not only for structural integrity but also for their thermal performance, enhancing energy efficiency throughout the building.
03
Charred wooden shingles are applied as an exterior finish, providing a protective layer that enhances durability and creates a distinct aesthetic.
04
The use of prefabricated components in construction significantly reduces waste and minimizes the environmental impact associated with traditional building methods.
05
Community rooftop gardens are designed to promote biodiversity, serving as habitats for local wildlife while also providing communal spaces for residents to connect.
The V-GEN eco-village is an architectural project designed to redefine urban living in Toronto, Canada, addressing critical issues such as affordable housing and sustainability. This development embodies a holistic approach to architecture, integrating residential units with agricultural spaces to create a self-sustained community within the urban fabric. The project represents a shift towards environmentally responsible living, where everyday needs can be met right at home, thereby fostering a deeper connection between residents and their environment.

As a mixed-use skyscraper, the V-GEN project serves multiple functions, primarily providing housing while simultaneously incorporating elements that support community interaction and food production. Its design thoughtfully merges residential spaces with vertical farming zones, enabling residents not only to live but also to engage in growing their own food. This innovative concept promotes self-sufficiency and sustainability and addresses the depleted connection many urban dwellers have with nature.

The architectural design features a timber framework made from Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), which is pivotal for sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Timber as a primary material not only offers environmental benefits as a renewable resource but also contributes warmth and a natural feel to the living spaces. Coupled with pre-fabricated components, the construction process is streamlined, allowing for efficient assembly while decreasing the overall project time—crucial for meeting the urgent demand for housing.

In addition to timber, the project incorporates reinforced concrete elements to provide necessary structural support. This combination ensures that the V-GEN eco-village remains robust and stable while minimizing its carbon footprint. The integration of sustainable practices is further solidified with features such as hydroponic systems for food production, rainwater harvesting for irrigation, and solar panels mounted on rooftops to harness renewable energy. Such features underline the project’s commitment to energy efficiency and resource management.

Residential units within the V-GEN eco-village are designed to cater to diverse family structures, with modular configurations that allow for flexible living arrangements. This thoughtful design promotes communal living while providing the privacy essential for individual households. Moreover, shared rooftop gardens enhance resident interaction and support urban biodiversity, reinforcing the project’s dedication to sustainability.

The most notable aspect of the V-GEN project lies in its unique fusion of living environments with agricultural systems. By incorporating vertical farming and community gardening into the design, it blurs the lines between urban dwelling and nature, allowing residents to grow their own produce and reduce reliance on external food sources. This aspect not only contributes to the economic sustainability of households but also fosters a strong sense of community as residents share responsibilities in tending these green spaces.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas behind the V-GEN eco-village may offer deeper insights into the innovative approaches used in its design. For those interested in sustainable architecture and urban planning, the project serves as a compelling example of how design can effectively respond to contemporary challenges while enhancing the quality of life for urban residents. The thoughtful integration of environmental considerations, community welfare, and modern living aligns with the pressing demands of today’s urban environments, making the V-GEN eco-village a project worth examining in detail.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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