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Sequential Arched Windows with Vertical Gardens in a Mixed-Use Development

Author:
Michelle Chedraui
Sequential Arched Windows with Vertical Gardens in a Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

The design incorporates sequential arched windows and a continuous vertical garden, enhancing the building's connection to the urban landscape while serving as a mixed-use facility for office and retail functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sequential arched windows wrap around the facade, creating a distinct architectural rhythm.
02
A continuous vertical garden integrates natural elements into the urban environment.
03
The design emphasizes pedestrian accessibility through sheltered walkways and connected retail spaces.
04
Office levels feature large balconies that encourage outdoor engagement.
05
The surrounding plaza enhances connectivity to the nearby metro rail station.

Vault 1044, located at 1044 Northeast 2nd Ave in Miami, Florida, reflects a design that connects with the city's historical influences while meeting modern urban demands. It combines elements from Miami Beach Art Deco and the architectural styles of Downtown Miami, resulting in a mixed-use building that serves both office and retail purposes. The design emphasizes engaging with pedestrians and creating a lively atmosphere that integrates well into its setting.

Design Concept

The design promotes an open and accessible environment through its layout and exterior features. A series of columns define the sidewalks, creating a covered walkway for pedestrians. This feature encourages people to interact with the retail spaces that line the street, enhancing the relationship between the building and its surroundings. The structural elements create a rhythm that draws attention and invites movement.

Facade and Materiality

The office tower is distinguished by the use of sequential arched windows. These windows not only offer visual appeal but also create a unique identity for the building. Each window is framed with a depth that adds character to the facade. This design choice allows natural light to enter the interior spaces, resulting in a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The attention to detail in the window design reflects a commitment to quality and contextual relevance.

Program Layout

The organization of space within Vault 1044 presents a clear distinction between offices and retail areas. Offices are placed in the upper levels while the retail spaces occupy the ground level. This layout supports a hierarchy of function that is easy to navigate. The surrounding plaza has been expanded towards the nearby metro rail station, improving accessibility for visitors. This positioning encourages foot traffic and enhances the building's connection to public transport.

Vertical Garden

An important aspect of the design is the continuous vertical garden that runs through the tower. This garden serves to balance work and recreation. It provides areas that are naturally ventilated and well-lit, promoting a healthy environment for users. Each office level opens up to the garden and features large balconies, which create outdoor spaces with views of the city. This design detail fosters a strong connection between indoor and outdoor life, making the building feel more inviting overall.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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