Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Vertical Gardens and Glass Facades Redefine Urban Living in Mixed-Use Development

Author:
Tae hyeun Kang
Vertical Gardens and Glass Facades Redefine Urban Living in Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

Utilizing vertical gardens and expansive glass facades, the urban development seamlessly integrates community spaces and sustainable living, creating a multifaceted environment for residents and visitors alike.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical gardens are integrated throughout the design to enhance biodiversity and air quality.
02
The use of expansive glass facades maximizes natural light and visual connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Green roofing systems are incorporated to reduce urban heat and improve site ecology.
04
A bent A-frame design creates unique spatial experiences and structural expression.
05
Extensive pedestrian pathways promote accessibility and encourage community interaction.
The architectural design project presented focuses on a comprehensive urban development plan situated in Seoul, South Korea. It emphasizes a dual concept of verticality and horizontal expansion, seeking to merge dense urban living with the necessity for public spaces. This initiative aims to enhance social interaction and improve the overall quality of life within a rapidly urbanizing environment.

The project incorporates a series of high-rise structures that serve multiple purposes, including residential, commercial, and recreational functions. Central to this design is the integration of public plazas, green spaces, and interconnecting pathways that facilitate movement and foster community interaction. The use of advanced materials not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also addresses sustainability, with a focus on long-lasting performance and ecological compatibility.

Unique Design Approaches
What distinguishes this project from typical urban developments is its intentional approach to creating a seamless connection between built structures and natural landscapes. The design prioritizes green roofs, which provide both ecological benefits and functional outdoor spaces for residents. This design choice directly links to the overarching goal of promoting environmental awareness and biodiversity in an urban setting.

The incorporation of extensive pathway systems allows for increased accessibility among different areas of the project, reducing reliance on vehicular transport. Bridges and elevated walkways create a network that encourages pedestrian movement and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, reflecting an innovative approach to urban planning.

Integration of Nature and Community
The project also emphasizes the importance of communal spaces. Parks and leisure areas are strategically placed to serve as focal points for social interaction, allowing residents to gather and engage with one another. These spaces are designed to accommodate various activities and events, making them integral to the urban experience.

Additionally, the use of transparent glass facades in many structures enhances visual connectivity, allowing for natural light to penetrate deeper into interior spaces, while also visually linking indoor and outdoor environments. This design decision enhances the sense of openness and community within the urban landscape.

To explore this architectural project further, consider examining the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available. Increased understanding of the architectural ideas presented will provide greater insight into the functionality and vision behind the project.
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 17,249 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