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Twisting Glass Facade With Green Terraces Overlooking Urban Bayfront

Authors:
Rob Kiester, Ryan Kane, Erik Randa
Twisting Glass Facade With Green Terraces Overlooking Urban Bayfront

Project in-detail

A twisting glass facade harmonizes with vegetated terraces, creating a modern high-rise that enhances community interaction while offering panoramic views of the waterfront.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower incorporates a twisting design that optimizes views and ventilation throughout its height.
02
Each of the 14 outdoor terraces features diverse vegetation, adding to the building's ecological footprint.
03
The facade utilizes a curtain wall system that balances transparency with structural integrity.
04
The base is designed to encourage pedestrian movement, integrating the structure seamlessly with public pathways.
05
Natural light is maximized through strategic placement of glass panels, enhancing indoor environments.
The Aqua Spina project represents a thoughtful evolution in urban architecture, seamlessly blending the natural and built environments. Located in downtown Singapore near Fullerton Bay, this architectural design embodies a response to the challenges of urbanization by integrating fluid forms inspired by the movement of water. The design is characterized by its twisting facade, which creatively navigates verticality while responding to the surrounding context. The architectural concept emphasizes the relationship between the structure and the nearby bay, ensuring that the project does not merely occupy space but enriches its environment.

The Aqua Spina serves multiple functions, including residential spaces, office environments, and community areas, reflecting a modern approach to mixed-use design. Each element has been meticulously planned to contribute to both individual and communal experiences within the urban landscape. The tower features 15 staggered blocks that provide a range of views of the waterfront and the city skyline. This thoughtful arrangement not only enhances visual appeal but also optimizes airflow and sunlight access, improving overall comfort for occupants.

Key aspects of the Aqua Spina's design include its innovative use of materials and its commitment to sustainability. The building is sheathed in a curtain wall system that incorporates expansive glass panels interspersed with solid surfaces. This interplay captures natural light throughout the day while showcasing the dynamic aesthetic of water reflections. Furthermore, the careful selection of materials—primarily glass, concrete, steel, and vegetated systems—highlights a balance between structural integrity and ecological responsibility. This is evident in the use of green terraces that encourage biodiversity and promote a healthy environment for both residents and local wildlife.

The unique design approaches of Aqua Spina extend beyond aesthetics. The project features 14 outdoor terraces, which serve as vital communal spaces encouraging interaction among occupants. These terraces are thoughtfully vegetated, cultivating a connection to nature while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the building. This emphasis on community integration transforms the traditional perception of high-rise living, offering spaces that support social engagement and well-being.

The base of Aqua Spina serves as an anchoring point in the design, providing a solid foundation that reinforces the verticality of the tower. This feature not only stabilizes the structure but also encourages pedestrian movement through its thoughtfully designed pathways. The integration of these paths into the surrounding infrastructure invites public engagement and accessibility, allowing residents and visitors to connect easily with the waterfront and the surrounding urban fabric.

In terms of architectural outcomes, Aqua Spina exemplifies modern urbanism by merging functionality with environmental sensitivity. Its design prioritizes human experience while simultaneously addressing important ecological considerations. The architectural layout demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through innovative building practices and community-oriented spaces that foster interaction and support.

For those interested in a closer examination of Aqua Spina, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the project's thoughtful composition. This multi-dimensional approach not only creates a visually appealing structure but also establishes Aqua Spina as a vital part of Singapore’s architectural narrative. Engaging with the project's presentation will offer further opportunities to appreciate the unique architectural ideas that define Aqua Spina and its role in enhancing the urban landscape.
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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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