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Vertical Farming and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Urban Tower

Author:
Alessandro Nardacci
Vertical Farming and Green Roof Integration in a Sustainable Urban Tower

Project in-detail

Integrated vertical farming and lush green roofs transform this urban tower into a sustainable living environment, seamlessly combining residential spaces and coworking areas to cultivate a vibrant community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an innovative vertical farming system to enhance urban agriculture.
02
Features a green roof design that contributes to local biodiversity and community engagement.
03
Utilizes high-performance glass to maximize natural light and energy efficiency.
04
Integrates terraces filled with native plants to reduce maintenance and promote sustainability.
05
Designed with a focus on mixed-use layouts to foster interaction among residents and workspace users.
The New Austin Skyscraper is an architectural endeavor located in the vibrant downtown of Austin, Texas, strategically designed to address the complexities of urban living while fostering sustainability and community interaction. This project represents a modern vision of multifamily living intertwined with professional spaces, integrating diverse functionalities within a singular vertical framework. It serves not only as a residential building but also as a hub for collaboration, work, and recreation, thereby enriching the urban fabric of the area.

One of the most appealing aspects of the New Austin Skyscraper is its conscious representation of environmental stewardship. The design philosophy transcends traditional architectural boundaries by emphasizing a symbiotic relationship between nature and architecture. This is achieved through the innovative integration of green spaces at multiple levels of the structure, including landscaped terraces and a dynamic green roof. These features not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the skyscraper but also provide essential habitats for local fauna and support biodiversity within the urban environment.

The building's function is remarkably multifaceted. It includes residential units, coworking spaces, and communal amenities, aiming to cater to a diverse demographic, from young professionals to families. The carefully detailed floor plans reveal a thoughtful arrangement that promotes social interaction while ensuring privacy. Each residential apartment type—from compact studios to larger multi-bedroom units—is designed to enhance livability and comfort, fostering an inviting community atmosphere.

Materiality plays a significant role in the architectural design of this skyscraper. A combination of high-performance glass, reinforced concrete, and structural steel is utilized to craft a façade that balances transparency and structural strength. The extensive use of glass allows for ample natural light to permeate the interiors, while also providing remarkable sightlines of the surrounding skyline. This design decision contributes to an overall sense of openness and connection to the urban landscape outside.

Another unique aspect of the New Austin Skyscraper is its commitment to sustainable living through the inclusion of vertical farming systems. This innovative feature not only serves practical purposes by supplying food but also acts as an educational tool, promoting awareness and engagement around urban agriculture. The project's landscape architecture integrates native plant species, which are not only suited to the local climate but also help in conserving water and reducing maintenance costs.

In addition, the architectural design is enhanced through its thoughtful approach to transportation. By situating the building in close proximity to various public transport options, the design promotes eco-friendly commuting and minimizes reliance on personal vehicles. This focus on accessibility is a critical component in cultivating a sustainable lifestyle, aligning with the broader environmental goals of the project.

The New Austin Skyscraper exemplifies contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize not just the edifice itself, but the lives and interactions of its inhabitants. Its unique design approaches combine to create a functional, engaging, and sustainable living space that not only serves the residents but also contributes positively to the urban environment.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a presentation is available that details architectural plans, sections, designs, and other architectural ideas that contribute to the overall vision of the New Austin Skyscraper. This in-depth insight will provide a richer understanding of how architecture can effectively address the needs of modern urban life while remaining environmentally conscious.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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