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Sky Gardens and Modular Units in a Sustainable Vertical Community Hub

Authors:
Rasha Alshami, Rami Shatat
Sky Gardens and Modular Units in a Sustainable Vertical Community Hub

Project in-detail

With its modular units and integrated sky gardens, the design creates a sustainable living environment that seamlessly blends residential and commercial spaces within the urban fabric of Orlando.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible living and working configurations.
02
Integrated sky gardens support biodiversity and enhance mental well-being.
03
Eco-insulation materials improve energy efficiency throughout the building.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive aesthetic and fire resistance.
05
Rainwater capture systems promote sustainable water management practices.
The Noma.Topia Skyscraper is an architectural project located in Orlando, Florida, near Lake Eola, designed to merge living and working spaces in a sustainable manner. This high-rise building reflects contemporary urban lifestyle trends, particularly the rising demand for flexible spaces in response to the impacts of recent global events. The project aims to foster community, environmental responsibility, and adaptability, integrating various functions within a single dynamic structure.

The design incorporates residential units, co-working offices, and communal facilities to create a multifaceted living environment. The architectural form is characterized by elongated silhouettes that facilitate light penetration and offer expansive views of the surrounding urban landscape. This approach allows the skyscraper to contribute to the identity of the area while also serving the needs of its inhabitants.

Adaptive Use of Space
A key feature of the Noma.Topia Skyscraper is its modular design, which facilitates adaptability in both living and working arrangements. This flexibility accommodates changing demographics and lifestyle requirements, allowing for layouts that can easily be modified based on individual preferences. The building includes various configurations of housing and office spaces, enabling residents to seamlessly transition between work and leisure without changing their environment.

Sustainable Design Initiatives
The project prioritizes sustainability by integrating green roofs, solar panels, and rainwater collection systems into its design. The use of eco-friendly materials, such as glass, metal, and reinforced concrete, ensures that the structure meets modern standards of energy efficiency and environmental performance. The incorporation of vegetation in the form of sky gardens promotes biodiversity and enhances the urban habitat, contributing to the well-being of residents.

Community and Connectivity
The Noma.Topia Skyscraper emphasizes community engagement through its design. Facilities such as communal lounges, recreational areas, and executive offices are strategically placed to encourage interaction among users. Sky gardens serve as both recreational spaces and micro-ecosystems, promoting mental health and providing a green respite from urban life. The internal layout prioritizes communal pathways and gathering spaces, fostering a sense of belonging within the vertical structure.

For further information, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the thoughtful approaches behind the Noma.Topia Skyscraper. Understanding these architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the unique objectives and methodologies that define this project.
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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
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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