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Rooftop Gardens and Water Management in Compact Urban Living

Author:
Maria Meza
Rooftop Gardens and Water Management in Compact Urban Living
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Water management systems and rooftop gardens integrate with compact living units to redefine sustainable urban life in a transformed New York City landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooftop gardens provide natural insulation and improve air quality.
02
The design incorporates innovative decontamination zones for enhanced safety.
03
Water collection systems recycle rainwater for irrigation and daily use.
04
Compact living units prioritize efficient use of space for urban residents.
05
Vegetated outdoor areas promote biodiversity within the urban environment.

The VINO Dystopian Vegetated Matrix is set in New York City, envisioned for completion in 2060. It focuses on the redevelopment of abandoned office buildings. These once corporate spaces will be transformed into compact living units surrounded by greenery. The design aims to respond to the changes in society brought about by a super virus, emphasizing sustainable urban living and a connection to the natural environment.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

Space is organized to facilitate essential living requirements, featuring elements such as elevators, kitchenettes, and decontamination zones. These components are particularly important in a world still grappling with health concerns. They enhance convenience for residents while maximizing efficiency within a compact layout. A focus on adaptability ensures that the design meets the challenges of urban life.

Integration with Green Spaces

At the heart of the design lies the integration of green spaces within the urban framework. Abandoned areas are reimagined as active spaces for plants and gardening. This inclusion not only enhances the visual appeal but also strengthens ecological networks. Residents will find areas for social interaction and relaxation among the greenery. This blend of living spaces with nature offers a refreshing contrast to traditional city environments.

Sustainable Systems and Technology

Sustainability is a key feature of the VINO Dystopian Vegetated Matrix. Water collection and filtration systems are incorporated into the design to support both the inhabitants and the surrounding greenery. Additionally, the use of waste water as fertilizer exemplifies a practical approach to resource management. These systems work together to foster a living environment that addresses both ecological concerns and the needs of its residents.

Visual and Cultural Influences

Inspiration for the design comes from a range of science fiction films, such as Metropolis and Blade Runner: 2049. These references highlight themes of technology intertwined with nature, envisioning a future where urban life and the environment coexist harmoniously. The design reflects this vision, aiming to create a space where people can thrive alongside greenery.

The rooftop gardens provide a diverse ecosystem for both plants and residents, offering spaces for relaxation and gardening. This feature reinforces the bond between urban life and nature.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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