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Vertical Gardens and Bamboo Framework Create Sustainable Urban Living in Elevated Housing Solutions

Author:
BOSSENO eddy
Vertical Gardens and Bamboo Framework Create Sustainable Urban Living in Elevated Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

With modular housing units elevated by a steel framework and integrated vertical gardens, this development redefines urban living by merging sustainable agriculture with modern resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates a vertical garden system that allows residents to grow food directly from their living units.
02
Modular housing units are elevated above the ground to maximize land use and minimize environmental disruption.
03
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the structure to support irrigation for the on-site agriculture.
04
The use of bamboo as an internal material reflects sustainability and cultural relevance in the design.
05
Community spaces are woven throughout the development, encouraging social interaction among residents.
The Agro Housing project exemplifies a thoughtful intersection of architecture and sustainable living, specifically tailored to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization in China. This project represents a new paradigm in urban residential design, seamlessly integrating agricultural practices into everyday life. The primary function is to create a living environment where residents can not only reside but also actively participate in sustainable food production, thereby fostering self-sufficiency and promoting community cohesion.

At its core, the architecture of Agro Housing is founded on the concept of 'Agro-Urbanism,' which is the blending of urban residential structures with agricultural spaces. The design features modular housing units that are strategically elevated above the ground, reflecting a contemporary interpretation of traditional Chinese basket weaving and craftsmanship. This elevation serves multiple purposes, including reducing land consumption and lowering the environmental impact of development. It allows for the integration of green spaces and agricultural plots at various levels, making the most of limited urban real estate while promoting biodiversity.

The primary materials employed in this project include steel and reinforced concrete, which provide the necessary structural support and durability for the housing units. Glass is extensively used in the façade, optimizing natural light exposure while enhancing thermal performance, ultimately contributing to energy efficiency. Additionally, sustainable materials such as bamboo and eco-friendly composites are applied in interior finishes and fixtures, aligning with the project's commitment to sustainability.

Significantly, Agro Housing also incorporates innovative vertical circulation pathways that connect the various levels of the residential modules. This design maximizes accessibility while facilitating direct engagement with both living spaces and farming areas. It encourages residents to cultivate crops on rooftop terraces, thereby ensuring a direct visual and physical connection to their agricultural endeavors.

Community-oriented spaces are strategically woven throughout the project, fostering interaction among residents. These shared areas serve as gathering points, encouraging social cohesion and collaboration within the community. The integration of greenhouses and shared gardening plots highlights the project's commitment to creating not just residential structures, but vibrant community environments where agriculture plays a central role in daily life.

Another hallmark of the design is its focus on resource efficiency. The architecture incorporates advanced rainwater harvesting systems and solar energy solutions, promoting an environmentally sustainable lifestyle. Rainwater is collected for both irrigation and other uses, while solar panels installed on rooftops support the energy needs of the housing units, reducing reliance on external energy sources.

The unique design approach of Agro Housing serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, transforming urban living into a holistic lifestyle that promotes health, well-being, and ecological awareness. The incorporation of agriculture into the architectural framework addresses issues of food security and urban productivity, presenting solutions to economic and environmental challenges faced by contemporary urban environments.

In summary, the Agro Housing project stands as a compelling model for future residential developments, demonstrating how architecture can effectively respond to the complexities of urban life. This project invites readers to explore its architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of how thoughtful architectural ideas can lead to innovative solutions for urban living. Engaging with the project presentation will provide valuable insights into the possibilities of integrating agriculture into urban architecture.
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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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