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Vertical Farming With Glass Façade and Sustainable Wood Elements in Urban Living Environment

Author:
Yu Gong
Vertical Farming With Glass Façade and Sustainable Wood Elements in Urban Living Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical farming alongside a glass façade and sustainable wood elements, this urban development redefines affordable housing by prioritizing community spaces and ecological integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features an integrated vertical farming system that enhances food sustainability within the urban environment.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural strength and reduce carbon footprint.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that optimizes natural light and creates dynamic interior spaces.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through adaptable public areas interwoven with private living units.
The project under analysis presents an innovative architectural design that seeks to address pressing urban challenges within Vancouver, focusing on the need for affordable housing while promoting community interaction and sustainability. This architectural endeavor represents a rethinking of traditional residential structures by blending private accommodations with communal spaces, creating a holistic living environment that fosters connectivity among residents.

The design features a multi-functional tower that accommodates various types of living arrangements, acknowledging the diverse needs of its potential residents. Each unit within the tower is crafted to emphasize both comfort and utility, encouraging occupants to create personalized living spaces while still remaining engaged with communal areas. This consideration aligns with the project’s overall function, which aims not only to provide housing but also to develop a vibrant community.

Key components of the project include strategically designed private units that cater to individuals, couples, and families. The interiors are thoughtfully organized to ensure efficient space usage, with an emphasis on light and openness. These living spaces are further enhanced by the introduction of shared amenities such as workshops, a gym, and communal gathering areas. These features are designed to encourage social interactions, integrating community life into the daily experiences of residents.

One of the unique aspects of this architectural project is the innovative incorporation of vertical farming systems within its design. By integrating urban agriculture into the residential fabric, the tower promotes sustainability and helps address food security in an urban environment. This initiative not only contributes to the overall ecological goals of the project but also allows residents to actively participate in sustainable practices at their home.

The architectural design is characterized by the clever use of materials such as concrete and glass, which are employed for their functional benefits while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the structure. The use of these materials allows for a modern look that maintains a sense of warmth and openness through extensive glazing, inviting natural light into the living spaces and common areas. The project emphasizes environmental sustainability through features like green roofs that encourage biodiversity and improve air quality in the urban context.

Through its focus on community-centric features, the design successfully navigates the challenges of high-density living by creating spaces that are vibrant and inviting. The arrangement of private and public spaces allows residents to engage with their neighbors while still having the option for personal retreat, a crucial balance in urban environments. This intentional zoning echoes the evolving needs of urban dwellers, making it a contemporary answer to the question of how to live affordably and meaningfully in a city like Vancouver.

The Greener Tower stands as a compelling example of modern architecture that thoughtfully addresses both housing needs and community dynamics through its innovative design approaches. It presents a model for future developments aiming to improve the quality of urban life, sustainability, and connection among residents. For those interested in exploring this project further, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, a closer look at its detailed presentation will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this remarkable undertaking.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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