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Spiraling Greenery and Photovoltaic Integration in a Sustainable Urban High-Rise

Authors:
Jonathan Delcambre, Brent Holdman, Cesar Salgueiro, Nam Phan
Spiraling Greenery and Photovoltaic Integration in a Sustainable Urban High-Rise

Project in-detail

A spiraling, vertical garden integrates photovoltaic systems and thermal mass elements to create a sustainable high-rise that harmonizes with its urban environment while providing flexible office and community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiraling design incorporates vertical gardens at multiple levels.
02
Photovoltaic systems are seamlessly integrated into the facade.
03
Concrete elements provide thermal mass for energy efficiency.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through the unique geometry.
05
Community and recreational spaces are intertwined within the structure.

The Carbon Neutral Tower is a contemporary architectural project located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, focusing on sustainability and innovative design. This building integrates various functions, including office spaces, public amenities, and recreational areas, while embodying principles of environmental stewardship. With a unique architectural form resembling a spiraling plant, the tower maximizes interaction with both occupants and the surrounding urban environment.

Unique Design Features and Sustainability

What sets the Carbon Neutral Tower apart from other architectural projects is its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The design employs a spiraled structure that not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also optimizes energy efficiency. Vegetation is integrated into multiple levels, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality. These green terraces enhance the urban ecosystem, contributing to a healthier environment.

The project features advanced passive strategies, such as natural ventilation systems that utilize airflow generated by its distinctive geometry. Concrete is used strategically to regulate thermal mass, presenting a dual function as both a structural and climate-control element. Combined with an extensive glass façade, these materials allow for abundant natural light while minimizing energy usage.

Active systems further contribute to the building's sustainability. Photovoltaic panels are installed to harness solar energy, while integrated wind turbines capture wind resources. Smart building technologies monitor and adjust energy consumption effectively, ensuring optimal performance in real-time.

Architectural Organization and Functionality

The Carbon Neutral Tower is organized into several distinct zones to accommodate diverse activities. The ground floor functions as a transit hub, facilitating easy access for pedestrians and commuters. Above this, flexible office spaces are designed for adaptability, catering to evolving work environments. These areas are interspersed with public amenities, such as cafes and recreational spaces that encourage social interaction among occupants.

The design also includes multiple amenity levels offering outdoor areas for relaxation and leisure. These spaces are not only recreational but also serve as communal gathering points, promoting a sense of community within the urban landscape.

The Carbon Neutral Tower exemplifies a forward-thinking approach within the architectural design field, where sustainability meets functionality. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, reviewing the project presentation will provide deeper insights into the methodologies and intentions that guided its development.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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