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Spiral Design Incorporating Hydroponics and Green Roofs in Reinforced Concrete Structure

Authors:
Kento Yoshino, Taichi Kawasaki
Spiral Design Incorporating Hydroponics and Green Roofs in Reinforced Concrete Structure

Project in-detail

A spiraling structure with integrated hydroponics and green roofs allows for an innovative approach to urban agriculture, creating a multifunctional space that fosters community engagement and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiraling pathways connect multiple levels, enhancing user circulation and accessibility.
02
Integrated hydroponic systems support year-round urban farming capabilities.
03
Green roofs mitigate stormwater runoff while promoting biodiversity.
04
Reinforced concrete and glass facades optimize energy efficiency and natural lighting.
05
Community gathering spaces are designed to facilitate social interactions and events.

## Project Overview
The SPIRAL is situated in the Royal Docks area of London, historically a significant trading port that has evolved into a center for innovation and sustainable development. The project aims to create a mixed-use space that not only reimagines urban farming but also integrates seamlessly into the existing urban fabric. The design focuses on fulfilling the community's agricultural needs while fostering an environment that promotes engagement and sustainability.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience
Central to the design is the "Horizontal Vertical Farm" concept, known as the "COIL Effect," which facilitates an interconnected system of agricultural production within the building's architecture. The spiraling structure not only functions as a visual motif but also serves to link various floors and spaces, encouraging circulation and interaction among users. This design encourages community engagement by creating inviting public gathering areas alongside private zones for agriculture and commercial activities.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The project employs reinforced concrete for durability, extensive glass facades to maximize natural light, and steel frames for structural integrity. Additionally, photovoltaic panels are incorporated to generate renewable energy, while green roof systems enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater. These features collectively demonstrate a focus on environmental responsibility and energy efficiency, asserting the building's role in addressing urban ecological challenges.

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

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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