Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Gardens and Geothermal Pools Elevate A Revitalized Silo Into A Multifunctional Community Hub

Author:
Seth Amman
Vertical Gardens and Geothermal Pools Elevate A Revitalized Silo Into A Multifunctional Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and geothermal pools, the transformation of a historic grain silo into a multifunctional community hub redefines urban living while emphasizing sustainability and ecological integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates vertical gardens that enhance air quality and promote urban biodiversity.
02
Geothermal pools provide an eco-friendly approach to leisure and wellness.
03
The adaptive reuse of a historic grain silo preserves Buffalo's industrial heritage while serving a new purpose.
04
Modular living units allow flexibility in housing arrangements for diverse lifestyles.
05
Roboticized vertical agriculture supports local food production within an urban environment.
The architectural project focuses on revitalizing the shoreline of Buffalo, New York, presenting a thoughtful transformation of a historic grain silo into a multifunctional structure that aligns with contemporary values of sustainability, community integration, and innovative design. This project represents a convergence of industrial history with modern architectural practices, reflecting a commitment to adaptive reuse. By reimagining this grain silo, the project seeks to bridge the gap between the past and the future, providing a fresh community hub that addresses both ecological and social needs.

The primary function of this architectural design is to create a vibrant space that serves various community activities, including housing, recreational areas, and urban agriculture, thereby fostering a sense of community engagement. The project is anchored by the reuse of the existing silo, which stands as a testament to Buffalo's industrial heritage while being restructured to meet present-day needs. This adaptive reuse not only preserves the historical significance of the site but also enhances functionality, demonstrating how old structures can be revitalized to serve new purposes.

The design integrates several important components that collectively contribute to its architecture. It features vertical gardens and sky forests, which enhance the visual appeal of the building and help improve air quality while providing spaces for community interaction with nature. The incorporation of roboticized vertical agriculture allows for food production within an urban setting, merging advanced technology with sustainable practices. This aspect emphasizes the project’s role in contributing to a resilient urban ecosystem while catering to the growing demand for local food sources.

One of the most notable elements of the design is the emphasis on connectivity with the natural environment. The project includes a new boat dock along the shoreline, providing important access to Lake Erie for both recreational and community uses. This lakeside integration promotes a restorative experience for visitors and residents alike, encouraging a healthy relationship with the water. The design also incorporates thermal pools that utilize geothermal technology, further showcasing the project’s commitment to sustainability and wellness.

The architectural approach taken here reflects unique design strategies aimed at creating multifunctional spaces that adapt to various needs. Modular living units are introduced to allow flexibility and adaptability for diverse lifestyles, ranging from co-living arrangements to potential workspaces. These units are designed to respond to the evolving demands of contemporary urban living, fostering a dynamic community environment. Public spaces interwoven throughout the project create both formal and informal gathering spots, promoting social interaction and cohesion among residents.

Landscaping plays a critical role in the overall architecture, featuring naturalized parks and pathways designed for public use. This integration of green spaces not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the site but also promotes biodiversity and ecological health. Additional design elements include green roofs that mitigate urban heat effects and improve energy efficiency while enhancing the building's overall environmental performance. The water features incorporated into the design serve practical purposes related to rainwater management while also adding visual interest.

Through a comprehensive and thoughtful approach, this architectural project demonstrates how urban landscapes can be transformed to incorporate sustainability and community engagement. It stands as a model of adaptive reuse, challenging conventional perceptions of urban development by merging historical relevance with modern design principles. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas connected to this project for a deeper understanding of its multifaceted components and thoughtful execution.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy