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Vertical Gardens and Energy-Efficient Glass in Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Authors:
Adam Fisler, Tyler Gallmann, Jared Fasshauer
Vertical Gardens and Energy-Efficient Glass in Sustainable Mixed-Use Development
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Combining vertical gardens and energy-efficient glass, this mixed-use development enhances urban living while providing essential community-focused spaces along the East River.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and visual appeal.
02
Incorporates energy-efficient glass to optimize natural lighting and reduce energy consumption.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that improves structural stability and aesthetics.
04
Employs modular construction techniques to minimize waste and construction time.
05
Integrates community-focused amenities within the mixed-use layout for enhanced urban connectivity.

## Project Overview
River Street Towers is situated along the East River in New York City, representing a mixed-use development that addresses the needs of modern urban living through a balance of affordability and luxury. Designed to enhance resident experience, the project offers expansive views of Manhattan and integrates diverse amenities designed to cultivate an engaging community environment.

## Spatial Strategy
The layout features two distinct, strategically oriented towers designed to optimize both internal spaces and external vistas. The angled, wedge-shaped configuration deviates from conventional rectangular forms, promoting maximum natural light penetration and framing picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline. This approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also ensures that each apartment receives ample daylight, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

### Community Integration and Amenities
The arrangement of the first and second floors emphasizes community interaction, providing easy access to a variety of amenities. The first floor includes an atrium, retail spaces, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a lobby, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and local visitors. The second floor offers office suites and additional communal spaces, reinforcing the development's role as a hub for social and economic activity.

## Sustainability Initiatives
River Street Towers incorporates multiple sustainable design practices, including modular construction techniques to streamline assembly and reduce costs. Innovative landscape designs featuring green roofs and permeable surfaces contribute to effective stormwater management. Energy efficiency is prioritized through the use of white roofs and shading mechanisms, which help mitigate heat gain and lower energy consumption.

### Materiality
The façade is characterized by a contemporary selection of materials that support both aesthetic and environmental objectives. Key materials include recycled wood, metal cladding, energy-efficient windows, and concrete, each chosen for their durability and performance qualities. The integration of vertical gardens further enhances the visual appeal and sustainability of the design.

Overall, River Street Towers provides a thoughtful response to urban living by prioritizing natural light, sustainable practices, and a layout that promotes community engagement.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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