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Vertical Gardens and Glass Facades in a Multiuse Sustainable Hub

Authors:
Maija Joensuu, Jaakko Torvinen
Vertical Gardens and Glass Facades in a Multiuse Sustainable Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and expansive glass facades, the design transforms an industrial site into a multiuse hub that fosters community interaction and creative collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity within an urban setting.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that provide weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while maintaining a compact footprint.
05
Offers flexible multiuse areas that adapt to various community activities and events.

The Mango Vinyl Hub is a contemporary architectural project designed to enhance community engagement and foster creativity within an urban context. Situated in an evolving industrial district, the building serves multiple purposes, including creative studios, event spaces, and public gathering areas. By integrating these functions under one roof, the project aims to stimulate collaboration and promote a sense of belonging among users.

The architectural design employs a grid structure inspired by existing factory pillars, creating a harmonious relationship between new construction and the site's industrial heritage. The design maximizes natural light through large glass walls, encouraging transparency and visual connectivity within the various spaces. This approach not only enhances the interior environment but also blurs the boundaries between inside and outside, creating inviting public zones.

Unique Design Approaches

The Mango Vinyl Hub distinguishes itself from conventional architectural projects through its multifaceted approach to space and community interaction. The design emphasizes flexibility, allowing users to modify the space according to their needs. This adaptability encourages continuous engagement and transforms the hub into a dynamic environment capable of hosting a variety of activities.

The integration of vertical gardens and green roofing is a critical component of the project's sustainability goals. These features contribute to urban biodiversity while also providing aesthetic and functional benefits, such as thermal regulation and stormwater management. By prioritizing ecological considerations, the project aligns with modern architectural trends that emphasize responsibility toward the environment.

Architectural Details and Functions

The layout of the Mango Vinyl Hub showcases a careful arrangement of zones dedicated to various activities. Multipurpose areas facilitate events like markets and art exhibitions, while designated creative studios promote artistic endeavors. Public spaces, including landscaped gardens, foster interaction among users, encouraging social cohesion.

The architectural materials selected for the project include glass, concrete, and wood, each contributing to the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The use of water-permeable surfaces enhances the site's environmental performance by improving drainage and reducing runoff, an important consideration in urban design.

Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and ideas presented in the project to gain deeper insights into the design and its implications for urban architecture. The Mango Vinyl Hub serves as a model for future developments, illustrating how thoughtful design can foster community interaction and environmental sustainability within urban settings.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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