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Staggered Volumes Featuring Transparent Glass and Eco-Friendly Materials in Urban Multifunctional Space

Authors:
Moataz Hassaan, Ziad Bassiouny
Staggered Volumes Featuring Transparent Glass and Eco-Friendly Materials in Urban Multifunctional Space

Project in-detail

Staggered glass panels entwined with greenery define a multifunctional tower that integrates residential and commercial spaces within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Staggered volumes promote diverse spatial experiences and light variation.
02
Integrated greenery enhances biodiversity and reduces urban heat.
03
Façade transparency fosters a strong connection with the surrounding environment.
04
Aluminum cladding ensures durability while maintaining modern aesthetics.
05
Residential and commercial areas coexist to support a vibrant community hub.
The Divergent Essen Tower is an architectural project located in Essen, Germany, designed as a multifunctional urban landmark. The tower integrates residential, commercial, and public spaces within a striking vertical structure. Its design challenges conventional skyscraper aesthetics, offering a unique approach to urban living and interaction. The significant spatial organization creates a diverse array of environments within the tower, while the exterior form emphasizes a departure from traditional uniform high-rise designs.

Unique Architectural Formulation

One of the defining characteristics of the Divergent Essen Tower is its staggered volumetric configuration. This design creates a dynamic silhouette that varies in height and footprint, promoting visual interest and enhancing the relationship between the building and its urban context. Each stacked volume is articulated to maximize natural light penetration and to create green terraces that enhance the building’s ecological footprint. The integration of vegetation throughout the design contributes to improved air quality and a reduction in heat islands, which is increasingly important in urban planning.

The building utilizes reinforced concrete as its primary structural material, ensuring durability and allowing for the intricate geometric forms. Glass panels are prominently featured across the facade, ensuring transparency and seamless views of the surrounding area. The use of aluminum cladding not only offers a modern aesthetic but also enhances weather resistance. These materials work together to create an architectural expression that is both functional and visually engaging.

Integration of Community Spaces

In addition to its residential and commercial functions, the Divergent Essen Tower emphasizes community integration through shared public spaces. The design includes areas dedicated to social interaction, such as gathering spots and landscaped terraces, fostering a sense of community within the urban environment. These spaces are strategically placed throughout the tower to encourage engagement among residents, visitors, and the broader community.

The project reflects current architectural ideas focused on versatility and sustainability. By prioritizing flexible spaces that can adapt to varying uses, the Divergent Essen Tower stands out as an example of responsible urban architecture. The design not only meets the needs of its inhabitants but also contributes positively to the cityscape of Essen.

For more detailed insights into the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, exploring the project presentation is recommended. Understanding the architectural ideas behind the Divergent Essen Tower will provide a comprehensive view of its significance and functionality within the urban fabric.
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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
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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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