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Vertical Gardens and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Defining Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Nicole Bergendal, Diana Marin, Matus Kianicka
Vertical Gardens and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Defining Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Cross-laminated timber panels support a multi-level structure enriched with vertical gardens, fostering biodiversity and enhancing urban living through integrated community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
02
Vertical gardens on multiple levels enhance biodiversity and air quality.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique texture while offering fire resistance.
04
Natural ventilation strategies integrated with operable windows improve indoor climate control.
05
Community spaces are designed to encourage interaction and collaboration among residents.
The Vitrum Botanicum is an architectural project designed to seamlessly integrate sustainability with contemporary urban living. Situated at coordinates 51.91547848477769, 4.488214508032785, this structure showcases a modern approach to high-rise design while prioritizing ecological balance and user interaction with the natural environment. The project adopts a holistic design philosophy, emphasizing the use of durable materials and innovative construction techniques aimed at reducing environmental impact.

The primary function of the Vitrum Botanicum is to serve as a multi-use facility that fosters community interaction and promotes a connection with nature. This is achieved through a combination of residential, commercial, and communal spaces designed to accommodate varying uses and encourage social engagement among its users.

Architectural Features and Functions

The design integrates cross-laminated timber (CLT), glass, and glue-laminated timber (glulam), which not only provide structural support but also contribute to the aesthetic quality of the building. The use of these materials fosters an environmentally sensitive approach to construction, showcasing the warm tones of wood alongside the transparency of glass. Large glass walls invite natural light into the interior spaces while creating a visual connection to the surrounding landscape.

Vertical gardens are a key component of the design, enhancing air quality and promoting biodiversity within an urban context. These gardens are located on multiple levels, encouraging plant growth while providing residents with private green spaces that elevate the overall living experience.

Strategic design choices also enhance natural ventilation and lighting. The incorporation of operable windows and balconies allows for airflow management, reducing reliance on air conditioning systems. The overall layout promotes a sense of openness and flow, improving spatial quality throughout the facility.

Sustainable Design Approach

The Vitrum Botanicum distinguishes itself through its commitment to a sustainable design framework. The architectural approach emphasizes passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation, while the reliance on locally sourced materials further minimizes the carbon footprint. The project also features roof gardens and terraces, which serve as functional recreational areas while contributing to stormwater management.

Community interaction spaces are intentionally designed to facilitate engagement, with ground-floor layouts that include open common areas suitable for gatherings and events. These spaces are strategically placed to create circulation pathways that encourage movement throughout the building, enhancing social connectivity among users.

This architectural project reflects a growing trend in urban design that prioritizes ecological responsibility without compromising aesthetics or functionality. The Vitrum Botanicum stands as a model for future developments aimed at harmonizing human activity with the natural environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Vitrum Botanicum, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed insights into the design, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. This exploration will provide in-depth information on how the architectural ideas translate into a practical and visually cohesive structure.
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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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