Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Expansion with Concrete Modular Units and Sustainable Greenery Integration

Authors:
Kathleen Hogan, Michael Da Silva, Matthew Imperato
Vertical Expansion with Concrete Modular Units and Sustainable Greenery Integration

Project in-detail

Employing verticality and modular concrete units alongside extensive greenery, the design effectively accommodates urban migration by creating flexible housing solutions that foster community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with vertical expansion in mind, enhancing land-use efficiency in urban settings.
02
Incorporates modular concrete units for customizable living spaces that evolve with resident needs.
03
Features extensive greenery integrated into communal areas, promoting ecological sustainability.
04
Combines residential and commercial elements within the same framework to support local economies.
05
Utilizes natural light extensively through glass facades, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

The "Living Districts" project is a comprehensive architectural design aimed at addressing the needs of urbanizing populations, particularly in China, where significant internal migration is occurring. This initiative focuses on creating flexible housing solutions that cater to the diverse requirements of relocated individuals, blending elements of both rural and urban living. The project consists of modular housing units that can adapt to the changing needs of residents over time, promoting a sustainable and community-oriented environment.

Modular Housing Design

Central to the "Living Districts" project is its modular housing design, which is divided into three distinct generations. The first generation features basic 3-meter cube units built on a concrete skeletal framework, allowing for individual customization of living spaces. This approach prioritizes flexibility, enabling families to tailor their homes based on personal requirements.

The second generation emphasizes vertical expansion, incorporating both residential and commercial spaces to create a multifunctional community. This design encourages a blend of work and personal spaces, fostering interaction and collaboration among residents. The final generation evolves into mixed-use high-rises, facilitating the accommodation of diverse businesses and offices within the same architectural environment, promoting economic development and sustainability.

Community-Centric Approach

A core aspect of the "Living Districts" project is its focus on community building. Public spaces have been thoughtfully integrated into the design, serving as communal hubs that promote social interaction among residents. Pathways and green areas connect different housing units and public amenities, enhancing the sense of community. This layout not only facilitates engagement but also promotes a healthier lifestyle through access to outdoor spaces.

The architectural approach also emphasizes environmental sustainability. The materials used include concrete for durability, glass for natural lighting, metal panels for modern aesthetics, and wood to provide warmth to the overall environment. Moreover, the integration of greenery throughout the design addresses urban heat concerns and contributes to improved air quality, making it a notable component of the project.

Overall, the "Living Districts" project stands out in its commitment to flexibility, community engagement, and environmental responsiveness. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas infused into this project.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy