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Terraced Rooftop Gardens with Steel Cores and Flexible Living Spaces in Urban Housing

Authors:
Hamid Aghashahi, Erin Allen
Terraced Rooftop Gardens with Steel Cores and Flexible Living Spaces in Urban Housing
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Incorporating terraced rooftop gardens and steel cores, this urban housing solution enhances community engagement while offering flexible living spaces in response to the challenges of high-density environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates terraced green roofs to enhance insulation and air quality.
02
Utilizes a unique bent A-frame design to maximize vertical space.
03
Features communal cores that improve natural light distribution throughout units.
04
Includes flexible interior layouts that adapt to various resident needs.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.

## Overview

"The Hong Kong Solution" addresses the pressing housing challenges in Hong Kong, a city characterized by high population density and a hot, humid climate. The design aims to create a healthier living environment while considering issues of urban overcrowding and community well-being. Through innovative architectural strategies, the proposal focuses on enhancing access to natural light, improving air quality, and fostering communal interaction.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design incorporates a variety of residential unit types tailored to different living arrangements, including compact studios, open-plan spaces, and private rooms with shared amenities. A central feature of the layout is the inclusion of communal areas that support social engagement and community building, promoting interaction among residents. The architectural vernacular emphasizes adaptability, where flexible spaces accommodate diverse needs and lifestyles, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A commitment to sustainability is evident in the choice of materials and design elements. Steel structures provide durable support for the vertical configuration, while integrated vegetation in communal spaces enhances ecological value and aesthetics. The project also employs advanced ventilation systems to optimize airflow, addressing the climatic challenges of Hong Kong. Noteworthy features include the incorporation of rooftop gardens and wind canopies, which contribute to energy efficiency and increase green space within the urban environment. The use of foldable furniture further promotes adaptability in densely populated living environments, allowing spaces to transform according to user requirements.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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