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Twisting Facade with Carbon-Capturing Sorbent Structures in Urban Renewal Design

Authors:
Amanda Hwa, Sombo Sisay, Regina Chen
Twisting Facade with Carbon-Capturing Sorbent Structures in Urban Renewal Design

Project in-detail

A twisting structure integrates carbon-capturing sorbent technology within a transparent facade, enhancing urban air quality while serving as a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
A twisting design optimizes airflow and reduces wind resistance.
02
Incorporates sorbent technology to actively remove carbon dioxide from the air.
03
Extensive use of glass enhances natural light and visual connectivity.
04
Adaptable community spaces encourage social interaction and wellness.
05
Built within the urban renewal context of Kowloon, enhancing the local environment.
The Windscraper is an architectural design project located in the Kai Tak Development Scheme, a significant urban renewal initiative in Hong Kong. This project is structured to serve both commercial and community functions within a densely populated area. The design prioritizes sustainability, focusing on air quality enhancement and environmental integration as key elements of its architecture.

The Windscraper features a dynamic, twisting form that allows for efficient airflow around the structure, which is essential in urban environments. This aerodynamic approach not only minimizes wind resistance but also optimizes natural ventilation throughout the building, creating a more comfortable and health-conscious indoor environment. The extensive use of glass in the facade facilitates transparency, promoting a connection between the building's occupants and the surrounding landscape, while ensuring ample natural light permeates the interior spaces.

Sustainability is further emphasized through the integration of carbon capture technology. The project incorporates specialized sorbent disks embedded within a vertical mechanical tree designed to absorb carbon dioxide from the air. This innovative feature addresses urban air pollution concerns by actively filtering the atmosphere, thereby contributing to improved air quality in Hong Kong. The building's construction employs reinforced concrete and steel frameworks, ensuring structural integrity while accommodating the design's unique form.

The distinctive architectural features of the Windscraper place it among a select group of progressive urban developments. Its focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and community engagement sets a new standard in contemporary architecture. The incorporated public spaces, including landscaped terraces accessible to visitors, encourage social interactions and foster a sense of community among the residents and workers in the vicinity.

In addition, the architectural plans showcase a careful arrangement of spaces that adapt to user needs while enhancing overall functionality. The integration of biophilic design elements further strengthens the connection between nature and urban living, promoting wellness within the built environment.

The Windscraper exemplifies a forward-thinking architectural design that bridges the gap between urban living and environmental responsibility. For an in-depth understanding of its architectural ideas and design principles, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available in the project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive view of how this project effectively redefines the interaction between architecture and sustainability in an urban context.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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