Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Vertical Farming Integrated Within Warm Concrete High-Rise Office Structure

Author:
Bastiaan Muilwijk
Vertical Farming Integrated Within Warm Concrete High-Rise Office Structure

Project in-detail

Integrated vertical farming seamlessly coexists with a warm concrete high-rise, fostering a unique urban workspace that emphasizes sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical farming occupies 50,000 m² within the high-rise structure.
02
The building utilizes warm concrete for enhanced thermal comfort.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are incorporated for structural efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to the building's weather resistance.
05
An entrance garden of 8,000 m² promotes urban biodiversity.
The project "Sandwich" is an architectural endeavor located in Rotterdam, Netherlands, designed to integrate urban living with agricultural practices. This project innovatively combines a high-rise office environment with dedicated spaces for growing vegetables and fruits, reflecting a response to the increasing challenges of urban density and climate change. With an emphasis on sustainability, the design aims to create a functional and engaging workspace that fosters a deeper connection between urban dwellers and their food sources.

The building encompasses several key components, including approximately 60,000 m² of office spaces, where diverse work environments are created to promote collaboration. An additional 50,000 m² is allocated for vegetable and fruit gardens, positioning agriculture as a core aspect of the workspace. Complementary facilities, such as a food and beverage outlet and retail spaces, are integrated within the structure, aiming to enhance the user experience and promote local produce consumption.

The architectural layout is characterized by a cross-construction approach, which optimizes both spatial organization and structural integrity. Natural ventilation plays a significant role in the design, as windows are strategically placed to maximize airflow and reduce the reliance on artificial climate control. The entrance garden, measuring 8,000 m², serves as a transition area, encouraging interaction between the urban environment and nature.

One distinguishing aspect of the "Sandwich" project is its commitment to vertical farming within a high-density office setting, a relatively uncommon feature in contemporary architectural designs. The integration of these urban agricultural elements fosters both biodiversity and sustainability within a metropolitan context. The use of warm concrete as the primary material reflects a focus on durability and thermal comfort. Additionally, the adaptive reuse principles applied in this design demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to urban development, challenging traditional separations of workspace and green space.

The "Sandwich" project stands as a testament to modern architectural practices that prioritize sustainability, collaboration, and ecological awareness. For those seeking further insight into the project, an exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a comprehensive understanding of its unique approach and functional layout.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
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 16,979 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