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Twisting Glass and Steel High-Rise Featuring Green Roofs and Flexible Workspaces

Author:
Jasha Salas
Twisting Glass and Steel High-Rise Featuring Green Roofs and Flexible Workspaces

Project in-detail

With a twisting exoskeleton of glass and steel, this high-rise incorporates green roofs and flexible workspaces to create a sustainable urban environment that fosters collaboration and connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisting exoskeleton design enhances structural integrity while maximizing natural light.
02
Green roofs contribute to urban biodiversity and reduce heat island effects.
03
Flexible floor plans allow tenants to personalize workspace configurations.
04
Integrated vertical transport system improves efficiency and reduces wait times.
05
Transparent façades provide unobstructed views and connect occupants to the cityscape.
The architectural design project titled "The Unblock" is a high-rise building located in Chicago, Illinois. It features a unique structural form comprising intertwining towers, which embodies modern urban design principles that prioritize flexibility, sustainability, and community engagement. Intended primarily for office use, "The Unblock" incorporates innovative spatial layouts and advanced building technologies that enhance the overall user experience. The design optimizes 70,000 square meters of office space over 80 floors, promoting collaboration and efficiency in a rapidly evolving urban environment.

Unique Structural Design Elements
The architectural form of "The Unblock" is characterized by its twisting silhouette, which differentiates it from conventional high-rise buildings. This dynamic shape allows for ample natural light to penetrate the space, improving the indoor environment. The transparent glass façades provide unobstructed views of the surrounding city, emphasizing a connection with the urban landscape. The strategic use of an exoskeleton made from steel enhances structural stability while allowing for flexible interior configurations. This design fosters an open floor plan that enables tenants to adapt the workspace to their specific needs, encouraging interaction and creativity.

Sustainability and Technological Integration
Sustainability is a core principle of "The Unblock." The project integrates green roof systems that not only reduce the urban heat island effect but also promote biodiversity in the city. Outdoor spaces, such as sky gardens and terraces, provide occupants with direct access to nature, contributing to mental well-being. Advanced technological integrations enhance the building's functionality, including smart climate control systems and automated elevators that improve user efficiency. The design prioritizes community connectivity, with communal areas and open corridors designed to facilitate social interaction among occupants.

For a comprehensive understanding of "The Unblock," individuals are encouraged to explore the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas. Delving into these elements will provide deeper insights into its innovative approach to contemporary architecture and urban living.
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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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