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 Glass Façades in a Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Author:
Colt Malloy
Vertical Gardens and Glass Façades in a Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

A blend of vertical gardens and a transparent glass façade creates an inviting oasis in the heart of Phoenix, designed to foster community engagement while offering diverse mixed-use spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a glass façade that enhances natural light while reducing energy consumption.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to improve air quality and promote biodiversity in an urban setting.
03
Features a mixed-use layout, combining residential, commercial, and communal spaces within a single structure.
04
Emphasizes sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials, minimizing the carbon footprint.
05
Designed with passive cooling techniques appropriate for the desert climate, enhancing thermal comfort.
The project "High Phoenix Rising" represents a thoughtful and pragmatic approach to urban architecture in Phoenix, Arizona. It seeks to infuse modern design principles with an understanding of the local context, creating a structure that is both functional and responsive to its surroundings. The architecture aims to address the intricate balance between urban development and environmental sustainability, a key challenge facing cities today.

At its essence, the design of "High Phoenix Rising" embodies the idea of elevation—not just in physical height but also in cultural and social aspirations. This architectural project serves multiple functions, including commercial, residential, and communal spaces, designed to foster interaction among residents and visitors alike. Its mixed-use concept is a crucial element, as it aims to mitigate urban sprawl by promoting density in a vertical format. By integrating various functionalities within the same structure, the design encourages a vibrant community atmosphere while also supporting economic growth.

The building’s form is characterized by a slender, upward-reaching silhouette that reflects both the surrounding landscape and the desire for upward mobility, which is synonymous with the city itself. The use of glass, particularly in the façade, allows for abundant natural light to permeate the interiors, creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This emphasis on transparency not only enhances the visual appeal of the structure but also serves to reduce the reliance on artificial lighting, aligning with sustainable design practices.

Materiality plays a significant role in this project. A combination of glass, steel, and wood is utilized thoughtfully throughout. The glass façade not only emphasizes openness but also aids in thermal efficiency, crucial for the desert climate of Phoenix. Steel lends structural integrity, allowing the building to achieve its ambitious height while ensuring durability. Wood elements are incorporated for aesthetic warmth and to establish a connection to nature, echoing the broader environmental themes present in the design.

The integration of vertical gardens and greenery also adds a critical dimension to the building's design. These features not only beautify the architecture but also promote biodiversity, improve air quality, and enhance the well-being of occupants. This thoughtful landscaping strategy reflects a biophilic design approach, recognizing the innate human connection to nature, which is especially important in urban settings where green spaces may be limited.

Unique design approaches are evident in how the project addresses climate, community, and character. The design incorporates passive cooling techniques that are vital for maintaining comfort in Phoenix's extreme temperatures. This integrative approach ensures the building remains functional and energy-efficient, minimizing its ecological footprint while maximizing comfort for users.

The project's contribution to the urban fabric of Phoenix is noteworthy. It aims to create a landmark that not only serves its immediate purpose but also aspires to elevate the city’s identity. By incorporating elements that reflect the historical and geographical context of Phoenix, the design fosters a sense of place and belonging among residents. Furthermore, the focus on community spaces encourages social interaction, forming a welcoming hub for diverse groups.

As you explore the project presentation, you will find architectural plans that detail the thoughtful organization of spaces, architectural sections that illustrate the building’s height and form, as well as architectural designs that highlight its unique aesthetic. This comprehensive look at "High Phoenix Rising" will provide deeper insights into the underlying architectural ideas that shape this project and its significance within the urban landscape of Phoenix.
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