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Vertical Gardens and Green Facades in Reinforced Concrete Towers Redefining Urban Living

Authors:
Marah Altarawneh, Nawras Almasri
Vertical Gardens and Green Facades in Reinforced Concrete Towers Redefining Urban Living

Project in-detail

Nestled within two repurposed towers, the integration of green facades and vertical gardens transforms reinforced concrete into a vibrant community hub that harmonizes living and working in the heart of the city.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates vertical gardens that enhance air quality and promote biodiversity in an urban setting.
02
Repurposed towers are transformed into a multi-functional community hub, blurring the lines between residential and professional spaces.
03
Green facades are seamlessly integrated into the building's design, reducing energy consumption while fostering a natural aesthetic.
04
A unique circulatory layout encourages social interaction among residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community.
05
Water features are strategically placed to enhance sensory experience and contribute to the overall tranquility of the environment.
The SkyHaven project represents a forward-thinking approach to architecture through the adaptive reuse of two unfinished towers in Amman, Jordan, initially stalled in 2008. It offers a fresh perspective on urban living by integrating functional space with community needs in a sustainable manner. By revitalizing these abandoned structures, the project not only aims to breathe life back into the urban fabric but also to provide a versatile environment for both work and leisure activities.

The design intention behind The SkyHaven emphasizes a harmonious relationship between individual living and communal interaction. This dual-functionality addresses contemporary demands for spaces that facilitate a blend of professional and personal life. As urban landscapes evolve, the importance of flexible spaces becomes increasingly relevant, and The SkyHaven stands as a testament to this direction in architectural thinking.

Central to the project are the architectural elements that expertly bridge the gap between aesthetics and functionality. The towers are designed with an open conceptual framework that prioritizes transparency and light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Large glass facades are employed to enhance visibility and foster a connection with the surrounding environment, while also allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces, making them feel more expansive and inviting.

A distinctive feature of The SkyHaven is the integration of green spaces throughout the development. These areas serve multiple purposes: they act as communal gardens where residents can engage in community-building activities, they improve air quality through vegetation, and they provide vital habitats for urban wildlife. The design incorporates green pockets at various elevations, allowing for gardens that are not only visually appealing but also functional, promoting biodiversity while offering residents a retreat from the bustling city below.

The structural components of The SkyHaven are thoughtfully composed using reinforced concrete for durability, while steel frameworks provide additional support for the building's extensive open shared workspaces. The combination of these materials results in a robust environment that respects sustainability principles. Green roof systems characterize the design as well, contributing to thermal insulation and reducing carbon footprints, indicative of a growing trend in responsible architecture.

One of the project's unique design approaches is the notion of urban courtyards and water features. Courtyards serve as social hubs within the towers, encouraging residents to interact in shared spaces, while water elements enhance the sensory experience and create calm amidst urban life. This design decision reflects a deep understanding of how architecture can influence human behavior and foster community interaction.

In addition to fostering a sense of community, The SkyHaven's design embraces a holistic strategy for modern urban living. Distinct working districts are incorporated to cater to diverse professional activities, allowing users to find spaces that align with their work styles, whether in solitude or collaboration. This emphasis on adaptability promotes productivity while respecting individual needs.

The SkyHaven stands out not only for its architectural ideas but also for its commitment to resilience and the environment. The focus on adaptive reuse signifies a conscious effort to minimize waste and promote sustainability in urban redevelopment projects. It challenges the conventional notion of tearing down old structures and replacing them, instead opting to reimagine and repurpose what already exists.

If you are interested in learning more about this innovative architectural design, including the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that showcase the thoughtful integration of various elements, take a closer look at the project presentation. By exploring these components, you can gain deeper insights into how The SkyHaven encapsulates modern architecture's potential to create meaningful spaces in urban environments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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