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Torqued Glass Facade With Concrete Structure Offering Panoramic Vistas

Author:
Michael Arellanes ii
Torqued Glass Facade With Concrete Structure Offering Panoramic Vistas

Project in-detail

A torqued glass facade and concrete structure create dynamic living spaces that optimize natural light and panoramic views in this residential high-rise.
5 key facts about this project
01
Torqued geometry maximizes light and views for each apartment.
02
Extensive use of glass creates seamless connections with the landscape.
03
Three aggregated floor plates enhance spatial variety and community interaction.
04
Incorporation of communal amenities promotes social engagement among residents.
05
Sustainable materials improve energy efficiency and reduce the building's environmental impact.

## Overview

The proposed residential tower in Vancouver, referred to as the "Torque Tower," is designed to optimize spatial efficiency while enhancing user experience. Located within a vibrant urban context, the structure's dynamic torqued form embraces the surrounding landscape, providing panoramic views of the city, waterfront, and mountainous backdrop. The architectural approach emphasizes creating a harmonious balance between individual residential units and communal spaces, facilitating both privacy and social interaction among inhabitants.

## Spatial Configuration and Community Integration

The innovative design incorporates three aggregated floor plates, resulting in varied apartment layouts that prioritize natural light and distinctive views. Each unit benefits from a unique positioning that enhances livability while promoting individual comfort. The integration of mixed-use facilities—including a clubhouse, restaurants, and a sky lounge—fosters social engagement among residents, reflecting a modern approach to urban living that values shared experiences and interactions.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Careful selection of materials contributes to both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the tower. The extensive use of glass for the façade ensures abundant natural light while allowing the structure to visually integrate with its environment. Concrete provides a robust structural foundation, while metal cladding enhances durability and weather resistance. Steel components are utilized to facilitate the tower's distinctive geometry. Furthermore, the design considerations likely account for energy efficiency, maximizing natural light and promoting sustainable living practices through thoughtfully chosen materials.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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