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Vertical Courtyard Design with Recyclable Materials and Integrated Eco-Farms

Author:
Ekaterina Ganeeva
Vertical Courtyard Design with Recyclable Materials and Integrated Eco-Farms
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Incorporating a vertical courtyard and utilizing recyclable materials, the design fosters community engagement while integrating eco-farms for sustainable living in an urban residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical courtyard enhances social interaction among residents.
02
Flexible modular units can be printed in any order on-site.
03
Use of recyclable materials reduces environmental impact.
04
Integrated eco-farms allow residents to grow their own food.
05
Solar panels provide renewable energy for lower utility costs.

The project features a modular design that emphasizes sustainability and community involvement. Located in an urban area that is increasingly focused on ecological living, the design utilizes 3D printing technology to fabricate building elements on-site. This method streamlines the construction process, reduces labor expenses, and minimizes waste, addressing modern challenges in housing.

Modular Design

Central to the design are nine separate 3D modules that can be created in any sequence. This modularity allows for flexibility in customizing housing options to suit the specific needs of future residents. Each unit is designed for efficient space use, highlighting the importance of personalization in creating comfortable living environments.

Community Spaces

A notable aspect of the design is the vertical courtyard that runs along the length of the building. This courtyard serves as an important communal area that encourages social interaction. The inclusion of playgrounds, barbecue areas, and recreational zones contributes to a lively atmosphere, fostering relationships among those who live there.

Sustainability Initiatives

The commitment to sustainability is clear through the use of recyclable materials mixed with concrete. This approach significantly reduces the environmental impact of the construction. Additionally, the design features eco-farms, enabling residents to grow their own vegetables and fruits, promoting self-sufficiency. On the roof, solar panels enhance energy efficiency and help to lower utility costs for residents.

Safety and accessibility are prioritized through the thoughtful organization of pathways and play areas for children. These design elements create secure spaces for families, allowing them to thrive in a supportive community. The vertical courtyard is a defining feature, blending privacy with opportunities for social engagement, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all residents.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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