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Verandas and Wind Turbines Surrounded by A Coastal Skyline

Author:
Misha Gliwny
Verandas and Wind Turbines Surrounded by A Coastal Skyline

Project in-detail

Outfitted with wind turbines and expansive outdoor balconies, the design seamlessly integrates coastal views with sustainable materials, creating a vibrant mixed-use space that enhances urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes a diagrid structural system to create open floor plans without internal columns.
02
Wind turbines are integrated at the upper levels to harness renewable energy efficiently.
03
Expansive outdoor balconies are designed to enhance user interaction with the coastal environment.
04
The façade features reflective metal panels that dynamically engage with changing light conditions.
05
Sustainable materials are employed throughout the interior to promote health and well-being for occupants.
Kahuna Towers stands as a noteworthy architectural project situated in the heart of San Francisco, embodying a vision that marries contemporary design with an acute awareness of the urban environment. The project represents a harmonious blend of aesthetic elegance and functional space, aimed at enhancing the urban landscape while catering to the modern needs of its users. Designed with a focus on sustainability, Kahuna Towers integrates innovative solutions that align with the city’s ethos and history, particularly its connection to maritime culture.

The architecture of Kahuna Towers draws inspiration from natural forms, particularly the fluid shapes of ocean waves. This influence is evident in the building’s soaring towers, which create a dynamic silhouette on the skyline. The organic shapes establish a dialogue between architecture and nature, allowing the design to resonate with its coastal surroundings while also signifying movement and vitality. The project functions primarily as a mixed-use development, incorporating office spaces and retail configurations that promote interaction and foster community engagement.

Central to the design is a carefully chosen material palette that enhances both the visual and structural integrity of the towers. The extensive use of glass allows for ample natural light to flood internal spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere while simultaneously providing stunning views of the surrounding urban landscape and bay. This use of transparent materials plays a key role in blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, contributing to a sense of connectivity to the city.

In addition to glass, metal panels are employed to articulate the building's façade, offering a reflective quality that changes with the light throughout the day. This dynamic interaction between light and material not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the architectural intent. Concrete is utilized in the foundation and structural components, ensuring the durability and stability required for such an ambitious design. Sustainable materials are incorporated into the interior finishes, highlighting a commitment to environmental responsibility and the creation of healthy spaces for occupants.

Unique design approaches significantly distinguish Kahuna Towers from other architectural projects. Utilizing a diagrid structural system eliminates the necessity for internal columns, allowing for open floor plans that promote flexibility in use. This innovative framework provides unobstructed views and maximizes the usable space, aligning with contemporary trends in office and retail design that favor adaptability. Moreover, the integration of wind turbines at the upper levels not only serves to harness renewable energy but also strategically addresses the building's energy needs.

Each floor features open-air balconies that provide outdoor spaces for relaxation and social interaction, enhancing the user experience by connecting them to the environment. This thoughtful detail encourages a sense of community among users while enhancing the aesthetic of the building. Additionally, the floor plans have been designed to encourage collaboration, prioritizing functionality in a way that adapts to the evolving needs of its occupants.

The overall design of Kahuna Towers embodies a comprehensive approach to architecture that prioritizes both form and function. By integrating elements of the urban context with a commitment to sustainability, the project serves as a benchmark for future developments in urban architectural design. To fully appreciate the nuances of Kahuna Towers, including its architectural plans, sections, and unique design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for a deeper understanding of its architectural significance and vision.
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MICROHOME
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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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