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Sustainable Green Terraces Enhanced By Curvilinear Forms Using Reinforced Concrete

Authors:
Yi Zhang, Yiwei Xiang
Sustainable Green Terraces Enhanced By Curvilinear Forms Using Reinforced Concrete

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms shaped by reinforced concrete and integrated green terraces create a seamless connection with nature, establishing a communal space that enhances outdoor interaction within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear architectural forms evoke the surrounding mountainous landscape.
02
Reinforced concrete is utilized for enhanced structural integrity while maintaining fluid design.
03
Integrated green terraces provide accessible outdoor spaces for community interaction.
04
Energy harvesting surfaces convert pedestrian movement into usable energy.
05
Charred wooden shingles reduce maintenance needs and enhance durability.
The Urban Mountain project situated in Chengdu embodies a contemporary architectural response to the challenge of integrating nature into an urban environment. The design focuses on creating a synthesis between high-density living and green spaces, aiming to enhance community interaction while addressing issues of sustainability. By drawing inspiration from the surrounding mountainous landscape, this project incorporates innovative architectural elements that redefine urban living.

Design Integration with Natural Landscapes

The Urban Mountain project features a distinctive architectural form that resembles the undulating lines of local topography. This design approach differentiates it from typical skyscraper developments that rely heavily on rectilinear forms. The flowing structure not only enhances the building's visual appeal but also ensures a connection with the natural environment, facilitating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces. By adopting organic shapes, the architecture creates a centerpiece that promotes a sense of place within the urban fabric of Chengdu.

The building's materiality is critical to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Utilizing reinforced concrete as the primary structural element allows for the smooth, expansive forms characteristic of the design. Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light and provide users with panoramic views of the landscape, effectively blending the boundaries between inside and outside. Furthermore, the integration of sustainable materials reinforces the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.

Spatial Organization and Community Focus

The layout of the Urban Mountain project is designed to foster social interaction. Communal spaces, including open-air gardens and multi-level terraces, encourage user engagement and outdoor activities. The ground floor serves as a public plaza, integrating walkways and green spaces that invite pedestrians and create opportunities for gatherings. This arrangement highlights the project's intention to serve as a community hub while ensuring accessibility to natural elements within a high-density urban context.

The architectural design also incorporates advanced technologies that make use of renewable resources. For instance, the project explores energy-generating surfaces that convert pedestrian movement into usable energy, thus promoting sustainability and minimizing the ecological footprint. These unique features not only enhance the building's functionality but also provide a model for future projects seeking to integrate sustainable practices into urban architecture.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Urban Mountain project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideation, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. Reviewing these architectural elements will provide valuable insights into the innovative approaches and technical specifications that define this significant contribution to contemporary architecture.
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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
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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