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Twisting Towers of Mesh and Steel with Water-Collecting Facades in Urban Harmony

Authors:
Abdulrahman Harib, Valerija Galkina, Carla Roemmelt
Twisting Towers of Mesh and Steel with Water-Collecting Facades in Urban Harmony

Project in-detail

Twisting towers crafted from a flexible mesh-skin capture wind and moisture in an eco-friendly response to Hong Kong's urban landscape, creating a multifaceted space for living and working.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisting towers enhance wind resistance and energy efficiency through an aerodynamic form.
02
The mesh-skin facade actively captures moisture for water collection, contributing to sustainability.
03
Kinetic adaptive technologies adjust the building's exterior to optimize energy performance throughout the day.
04
Flexible design integrates communal spaces that promote social interaction among residents and users.
05
Strategic orientation maximizes natural ventilation and daylight while minimizing energy consumption.
The [MURUS]-Scape project reflects a thoughtful architectural response to the complex challenges faced by urban environments, specifically designed for the vibrant and densely populated city of Hong Kong. This architectural endeavor seeks to integrate sustainable practices with innovative design solutions while addressing the city’s unique climatic conditions and urban context.

At its core, [MURUS]-Scape serves a dual function: it is both a high-rise residential and commercial building designed to maximize space efficiency within the constraints of the urban landscape. The design not only provides essential living and working spaces but also enriches the urban experience by creating areas that promote interaction and community engagement. This multifunctional approach aligns well with contemporary urban needs, emphasizing the importance of merging different uses within a singular architectural footprint.

The project features two twisting towers whose innovative forms imitate natural growth patterns. This design choice is emblematic of a broader trend in contemporary architecture that seeks inspiration from the efficiency and beauty found in nature. The aerodynamic shape of the building minimizes wind resistance, enhancing stability while promoting energy efficiency. The orientation of the towers is deliberately aligned with prevailing wind patterns, allowing the architecture to leverage natural ventilation, which significantly reduces reliance on mechanical systems for climate control.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s design philosophy. The primary skin of the building is constructed utilizing durable metal frameworks that provide both structural integrity and a visually appealing aesthetic. This outer shell is complemented by a secondary skin made from advanced mesh materials, designed to optimize energy harvesting and moisture collection processes. This dual-layer system is not only functional but also contributes to the building's overall visual dynamism, creating a rhythmic interplay of light and texture throughout the day.

[MRUS]-Scape's sustainable systems are particularly noteworthy. The design incorporates innovative features such as wind energy capture mechanisms and moisture collection technologies, which work in synergy to enhance the building's environmental performance. The kinetic nature of these systems allows the structure to adapt to changing environmental conditions, showcasing a modern approach to the relationship between architecture and sustainability. By integrating these technologies, the project actively contributes to reducing the carbon footprint while providing comfortable spaces for its residents and users.

One of the defining aspects of the project is its utilization of biomimicry. This approach not only informs the overall form of the building but also plays a vital role in its function. By drawing from natural processes, the design exemplifies how architecture can engage with and support ecological systems. The project responds adeptly to Hong Kong's climate, which is characterized by fluctuations in temperature and periodic rainfall. The incorporation of fog nets for moisture collection and passive cooling strategies underscores the commitment to creating an environmentally responsive design that prioritizes both comfort and sustainability.

The [MURUS]-Scape project also emphasizes social interaction and urban connectivity. The design recognizes the importance of communal areas, integrating spaces that foster engagement among residents. By creating these shared environments within the high-rise complex, the project enhances the overall quality of life in the urban setting, challenging the isolation often found in many contemporary skyscrapers.

In summary, the [MURUS]-Scape project stands as a testament to the potential of modern architecture to address pressing urban and environmental challenges without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. Its thoughtful integration of innovative design approaches, sustainable technologies, and community-centric spaces creates a comprehensive architectural solution tailored to the needs of its environment. For those interested in delving deeper into this architectural exploration, reviewing the project’s architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide invaluable insights into the transformative vision that underlies this multifaceted design.
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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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