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Vertical Farming with Green Roofs and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing Development

Authors:
Varun Sharma, Austin Lightle
Vertical Farming with Green Roofs and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing Development

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical farming with green roofs, this urban housing development utilizes eco-friendly materials and innovative design to foster community engagement and promote sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical farming into residential units for sustainable food production.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features green roofs that improve insulation and biodiversity.
04
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and air circulation.
05
Offers communal spaces strategically designed to foster social interaction among residents.
The Neo-Garden City project is an architectural design that reinterprets urban living by integrating horticulture with residential spaces. Its primary function is to provide sustainable housing while fostering community relationships and enhancing ecological responsibility. The project proposes a mixed-use environment that blurs the lines between architecture and nature, promoting a healthy lifestyle through urban agriculture and social interaction.

The layout features a structured grid system designed for efficient circulation and access to communal amenities. This framework allows for a variety of housing types, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom units, accommodating diverse residents. The design emphasizes natural light and green spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages interaction among occupants.

The facade showcases an innovative method of incorporating external circulation, featuring vertical louvers that filter sunlight and provide privacy. This design not only enhances the aesthetic but also serves to reduce energy consumption through passive solar strategies.

Unique Design Approaches

The project's standout component is its focus on urban farming, facilitated by dedicated rooftop gardens. These spaces provide residents an opportunity to grow food, contributing to food security and enhancing the overall living experience. The integration of green roofs significantly improves the building's thermal performance, further aligning with sustainable architectural practices.

Community spaces are strategically placed throughout the development, allowing residents access to fitness facilities, communal libraries, and gathering areas. These spaces are designed to foster social engagement and a sense of belonging, which is vital in contemporary urban environments.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project. The use of concrete ensures structural integrity, while glass elements enhance transparency and connectivity to the outdoors. Steel frameworks offer flexibility, and wooden accents add warmth and character. The combination of these materials aligns with the principles of sustainable design, marrying function with ecological consciousness.

Architectural Ideas

The Neo-Garden City not only addresses housing needs but also serves as a model for future urban developments by prioritizing environmental stewardship. Its emphasis on biophilic design principles highlights the impact of natural elements on residents' well-being. The project encourages active participation in both communal and agricultural activities, reflecting a modern interpretation of urban living.

By examining architectural plans, sections, and other relevant design elements, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the Neo-Garden City project. Explore the presentation to delve into the specific architectural details that define this forward-thinking design.
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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
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