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Terraced Living Integrated With Vertical Gardens and Engineered Timber in Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Veronica Da rin delle lode, Giada Zammattio, Michele Merlin
Terraced Living Integrated With Vertical Gardens and Engineered Timber in Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical gardens with engineered timber, this residential tower redefines urban living through sustainable terraced apartments designed to foster community engagement and ecological connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with reinforced concrete, the tower incorporates engineered timber for enhanced sustainability and aesthetics.
02
Balconies feature integrated vertical gardens to promote biodiversity and urban greening.
03
The design includes adaptable shared spaces that encourage social interaction among residents.
04
Low-emissivity glass facades reduce energy consumption while maximizing natural light.
05
Pedestrian pathways seamlessly connect the building to surrounding public areas, enhancing accessibility.
The Alexandra Terrace Tower is an architectural project located in Swiss Cottage, London. The design seeks to address the challenges of urban living by creating a vertical community that emphasizes sustainability and connectivity. This residential tower integrates various functions, including private living spaces, communal areas, and green environments.

At its core, the project represents an evolution in urban housing, focusing on the concept of terraced living. Each of the apartments is designed with outdoor spaces, facilitating a connection with nature and allowing residents to personalize their living environments. The tower aims to provide adaptable housing solutions, accommodating different family structures and lifestyles, while fostering a strong community feel.

Sustainability is a central theme in the architectural design and material selection. Reinforced concrete is employed for the structure, offering durability and resilience. Low-emissivity glass is used to maximize natural light while minimizing energy loss. Engineered timber cladding adds warmth and enhances the aesthetic appeal, while vertical gardens implemented throughout the design contribute to the building's ecological footprint. These elements collectively promote an environmentally sensitive approach to urban architecture.

Unique Design Approaches in the Alexandra Terrace Tower

The tower features innovative vertical living solutions, departing from traditional horizontal expansion commonly found in urban environments. The integration of green roofs and vertical gardens not only beautifies the structure but also aids in thermal insulation and biodiversity. Balconies and terraces provide additional outdoor space, reinforcing the connection between residents and their surroundings.

Community-focused spaces are strategically designed to encourage interaction among residents. Shared facilities, including gathering areas and green spaces, help foster a sense of belonging and communal identity. The design incorporates pedestrian pathways that enhance accessibility and mobility, promoting a lifestyle that is conducive to community engagement.

Key Architectural Features and Details

The Alexandra Terrace Tower’s façade is characterized by a dynamic interplay of materials and forms. The use of metal frameworks in conjunction with the wooden terraces creates a balanced visual rhythm that distinguishes the project within its context. The ground level is designed as an inviting interface with the surrounding environment, featuring open spaces that cater to pedestrian flow and interaction.

Architectural sections of the project reveal thoughtful spatial configurations that optimize natural light and ventilation within living units. The integration of energy-efficient systems throughout further solidifies the building's commitment to sustainability.

To gain a deeper understanding of the Alexandra Terrace Tower, including its architectural plans and sections, it is encouraged to explore the project presentation directly. Delve into the architectural details and design ideas that make this project a notable example of contemporary urban architecture.
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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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