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Soaring Vertical Gardens With Nutrient-Rich Membrane Integration in Sustainable Concrete Structure

Authors:
Anna Vylegzhanina, Natalia Kalistratova
Soaring Vertical Gardens With Nutrient-Rich Membrane Integration in Sustainable Concrete Structure

Project in-detail

Incorporating nutrient-rich membranes within its distinctive green bubbles, this skyscraper redefines urban living by seamlessly integrating vertical gardens into a sustainable concrete structure designed for commercial and residential use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates soil-less nutrient membranes within green bubbles for plant growth.
02
Features a dual-functional façade integrating gardens and living spaces.
03
Utilizes a robust concrete core for enhanced structural stability.
04
Integrates energy-efficient systems for reduced environmental impact.
05
Promotes biodiversity by housing a variety of plant species at multiple levels.

The Green Bubbles Skyscraper represents a progressive approach to urban architecture, focusing on integrating natural elements within high-rise structures. Located in a prominent urban center, the project aims to redefine the relationship between natural and built environments, creating a multifunctional space that serves residential, commercial, and recreational purposes. The skyscraper incorporates both functionality and aesthetic appeal, highlighting the importance of sustainable design in contemporary architecture.

The design features a robust concrete core that houses various functional areas, including offices and retail spaces. Surrounding this central structure are spherical "green bubbles" that extend outward from the façade. These elements provide both visual interest and essential green space, allowing for gardens and vegetation at different levels throughout the building. By incorporating these features, the project emphasizes the importance of integrating nature into densely populated urban environments, promoting biodiversity and enhancing air quality.

Unique Design Approaches

The Green Bubbles Skyscraper distinguishes itself through its innovative integration of green spaces into the architectural design. The green bubbles function not only as aesthetic enhancements but also as active spaces where urban residents can engage with nature. This dual functionality addresses a common issue in urban design—namely, the lack of accessible green areas.

The incorporation of nutrient-rich membranes within the green bubbles allows for soil-less plant growth, reducing maintenance requirements and facilitating biodiversity. This method enables a diverse selection of plant species, which can adapt to varied climate conditions, enhancing the building's ecological impact. Furthermore, the use of large glass elements in the façade optimizes natural light penetration, contributing to energy efficiency while connecting occupants with the external environment.

Sustainable Practices and Ecological Impact

Sustainability is a core principle underlying the Green Bubbles Skyscraper's design, employing technologies that align with modern environmental standards. The project includes features such as rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and the use of recycled materials in construction. This holistic approach not only meets the building's functional requirements but also minimizes its overall ecological footprint.

By reimagining urban living spaces, the Green Bubbles Skyscraper advocates for a future-oriented architectural vision. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can contribute to healthier urban ecosystems, illustrating the potential for high-rise buildings to coexist with nature.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. The comprehensive analysis of the architectural solutions offers a deeper understanding of this significant contribution to urban architecture.

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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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