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Spiral Overpass Enabling Community Living with Modular Units

Authors:
Jiajing Gao, Xingjie Xie
Spiral Overpass Enabling Community Living with Modular Units
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A spiral overpass interlinks driverless trams and modular living units, promoting community interaction while enhancing urban mobility in Chongqing.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral overpass design optimizes land use while enhancing vertical connectivity.
02
Modular living units provide flexible residential options tailored for urban density.
03
The station features an integrated air purification system improving local air quality.
04
A cableway system enhances transportation efficiency by connecting living spaces.
05
Community gardens on balconies promote sustainable urban agriculture.

The Overpass Rail Station in Chongqing is a thoughtful solution to the needs of a busy urban landscape. Located in a densely populated area, it combines various transportation functions in one cohesive structure. The design features a spiral shape that effectively utilizes vertical space, reducing the land footprint while promoting accessibility and convenience. This station serves as an important hub, bringing together different methods of transport for the city's inhabitants.

Transportation Integration

Combining multiple types of transport is a key feature of this design. The overpass provides a route for driverless ultrahigh-speed trams, allowing for quick movement across the city. Alongside the light rail system, the project encourages walking by integrating pedestrian paths. The cableway adds an extra layer of innovation, providing not only transportation but also a unique way to connect residential areas. This arrangement fosters increased interaction among users and helps alleviate traffic pressure on ground-level streets.

Modular Living Solutions

The project introduces modular living boxes that prioritize flexibility for residents. Available in various configurations, including single, double, triple, and quadruple rooms, these units accommodate a range of living situations. The design allows for efficient use of space, intending to create a sense of community among inhabitants. This approach makes it easier for people to connect and share experiences in a high-density environment.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays an essential role throughout the design. An air purification system is integrated into the central tube, which helps filter pollutants for a healthier atmosphere. Green infrastructure, including plants and trees, contributes to improving air quality while providing shade and beauty. This focus on environmental well-being addresses contemporary urban issues and enhances the living conditions for residents.

Public and Community Spaces

The design includes well-planned public areas and buffer zones to balance privacy with social engagement. The aerial farm market enables residents to grow edible plants on their balconies and walls, reinforcing a connection to nature. This aspect not only promotes sustainable practices but also encourages a sense of belonging among community members.

A notable feature of the station is the vertical elevator in the core tube, providing access to different levels of the structure while offering views of the surrounding area. This addition transforms the experience of moving through the station, making each trip engaging and visually appealing.

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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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