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Twisting Towers with Vertical Gardens and Integrated Solar Panels in a Mixed-Use Urban Environment

Authors:
Zijian Zhang, Dawei Wang, Zhaoyang Zhang
Twisting Towers with Vertical Gardens and Integrated Solar Panels in a Mixed-Use Urban Environment
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Incorporating twisting towers and vertical gardens, this development utilizes solar panels and sustainable materials to create a multifunctional space that enhances urban living through community interaction and local food production.
5 key facts about this project
01
Twisting tower design maximizes natural light and airflow.
02
Integrated vertical gardens support local food production.
03
Solar panels and wind turbines enable energy self-sufficiency.
04
Dedicated community spaces foster social interaction among residents.
05
Materials selected include sustainable glass and recycled steel for durability.

Sustainable Assembly is an architectural project designed to address the challenges of urban living in Beijing, China. This project reimagines the concept of high-rise buildings, blending residential, communal, and agricultural functions within a cohesive vertical environment. The overall design seeks to promote sustainability, social interaction, and efficient use of space, encapsulating a vision of future urban living.

The architectural design incorporates two twisting towers that optimize light and airflow while creating a visually engaging structure. The unique spiral form of the towers facilitates expansive views and enhances the aesthetic dialogue with the surrounding urban landscape. Each tower features distinct functional zones, including living spaces, gardens, and communal areas, allowing for a fluid integration of diverse activities within a single building.

Integrated Infrastructure and Community Focus
One of the defining aspects of Sustainable Assembly is its focus on community and sustainability through integrated infrastructure. The project features dedicated zones for urban agriculture, which employ vertical gardens to promote local food production. This design element encourages residents to participate in sustainable practices and cultivate their own food.

The structure is organized into functional areas: residential units, communal gathering spaces, and transportation hubs. Each zone is designed to enhance interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community. The architectural plans illustrate the deliberate arrangement of spaces that support social engagement, with shared facilities designed to accommodate events and activities that promote neighborhood interactions.

Use of Sustainable Materials and Technologies
The materials used in Sustainable Assembly are carefully selected to meet ecological standards while ensuring structural integrity. Glass facades facilitate natural light penetration, minimizing the reliance on artificial lighting. Steel provides the necessary strength for high-rise construction, while concrete serves as a durable material for internal walls. Renewable energy technologies, including solar panels and wind turbines, are integrated into the design, making the building energy-efficient and reducing its carbon footprint.

The unique architectural designs and the innovative use of materials highlight a commitment to sustainability that distinguishes this project from other developments. The careful consideration of the function of each element within the structure demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the needs and benefits of urban living, creating a cohesive environment that prioritizes both comfort and ecological responsibility.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements of the Sustainable Assembly project, we encourage readers to explore the detailed presentation of this innovative design. Reviewing the architectural ideas and designs will provide a deeper understanding of the project's approach to modern urban living.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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