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Translucent Mesh Screens and Vertical Gardens in a High-Rise Residential Complex

Authors:
Tim Williams, Max Martin, Jon Martin
Translucent Mesh Screens and Vertical Gardens in a High-Rise Residential Complex

Project in-detail

Translucent mesh screens embrace layered green terraces in a high-rise complex designed for urban living, fostering community interaction while prioritizing residents' well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent mesh screens enhance privacy while allowing natural light to permeate living spaces.
02
Layered vertical gardens promote biodiversity and create communal green spaces for residents.
03
Adaptable floor plans cater to diverse family sizes and lifestyles, encouraging personalization.
04
Light scoops optimize daylighting and create a connection to the surrounding urban environment.
05
Sustainable materials, including low-VOC finishes, prioritize indoor air quality and health.
This architectural design project in Hong Kong represents a thoughtful response to the challenges of urban living, particularly in a densely populated environment. The project is a multifaceted residential complex that integrates the notion of tranquility within a vertical, communal living framework, effectively addressing both the psychological and spatial needs of its inhabitants. The function of the project is not only to provide housing but to create a nurturing environment that fosters community engagement, personal well-being, and interaction with nature.

At its core, the architectural design illustrates a keen understanding of the dynamics of urban life. The building’s verticality resonates with the iconic skyline of Hong Kong, symbolizing the potential for harmony amid density. A notable feature of the design is its layered façade, which utilizes reinforced concrete as the primary structural material, ensuring durability and stability for high-rise living. The innovative use of translucent mesh screens adds a unique character to the exterior while allowing light to filter into the interiors. This approach not only respects the local context but also provides an effective solution for privacy, allowing residents to maintain their personal space without feeling enclosed.

Inside, the design prioritizes the experience of living. The project features adaptable floor plans that cater to a range of family sizes and lifestyles, fostering a sense of ownership among the residents. Natural light is optimally harnessed through light scoops, which draw in sunlight and create a spatial connection to the outside world, even in an urban setting. These architectural details highlight a commitment to enhancing the quality of life through intelligent design choices.

Community spaces are a prominent aspect of the project, aimed at encouraging social interaction among residents. Shared amenities, such as communal kitchens and relaxation gardens, are strategically positioned to facilitate engagement while promoting a sense of community. This aspect reflects a growing recognition of the importance of social connectivity in urban design, allowing residents to enjoy the benefits of neighborhood relationships even in a high-density environment.

The materiality of the project plays a crucial role in its overall aesthetic and functional success. Alongside reinforced concrete, the integration of natural wood accents within the interiors creates a warm atmosphere that contrasts with the robust exterior. Low-VOC paints are employed to ensure a healthier living environment, demonstrating consideration for sustainability and the well-being of the residents.

The unique design approaches utilized in this project reveal a deep understanding of the intricate balance required between private comfort and communal dynamics. By embracing open spaces on each floor, where residents can cultivate gardens, the design extends the concept of living beyond the individual units and seeks to connect residents with nature. This deliberate integration of greenery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes positively to mental health, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to promoting a holistic lifestyle.

This architectural endeavor represents a significant step toward addressing contemporary urban issues in Hong Kong. By reimagining how vertical living can incorporate both community and personal well-being, the project stands as a testament to innovative thinking in densely populated urban settings. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this design, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and the broader architectural ideas presented can offer deeper insights into how thoughtful design can reshape urban living experiences. Exploring these elements will provide a clearer perspective on the project's vision and execution, revealing the layers of consideration that inform such impactful architectural work.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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