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Vertical Gardens and Hydroponic Solutions in Compact Rooftop Living

Authors:
Tasnova Afroz, Snahasis Saha
Vertical Gardens and Hydroponic Solutions in Compact Rooftop Living
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With an emphasis on vertical gardens and hydroponic systems, the design merges sustainable living with compact rooftop units, providing affordable housing solutions for urban professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Each unit features modular living spaces that adapt to occupant needs for enhanced functionality.
02
Vertical gardens on terraces allow residents to engage in urban farming for self-sufficiency.
03
Rainwater collection systems are integrated into the inverted roof design for sustainability.
04
Units are designed for natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling.
05
The use of plywood frames ensures a lightweight structure while maintaining durability.

The Weaver's Hut project is located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, a city facing significant challenges due to rapid population growth and urbanization. The design aims to provide affordable housing for young professionals who often struggle to find suitable living conditions. By utilizing the unused rooftops of existing apartment buildings, the project creates a new type of micro-community that addresses housing shortages while fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Design Concept

The design features a linear arrangement of living units, each occupying a compact footprint of 25 square meters. Within this space, essential functions such as a bedroom, dining area, kitchen, and toilet are incorporated into a modular layout that optimizes the use of space. The concept allows for flexibility, with living and workstation areas that can be adjusted according to the needs of the occupants.

Spatial Organization

The structure is divided into three main sections: the Living Area, Service Area, and Private Area. This clear organization facilitates efficient movement throughout the space. Each entry point leads to small terraces, promoting community interaction among residents. These terraces are enhanced by vertical gardens, allowing individuals to grow their own food, which supports sustainable urban living.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. The inverted roof allows for rainwater collection, making efficient use of resources. Each unit is designed for natural ventilation, with high windows that promote airflow and allow daylight to fill the space. This reduces the need for artificial lighting and cooling systems, creating a comfortable environment for residents.

Material Selection

The project uses a careful selection of materials that align with its goals. Solar panels provide renewable energy, while wooden braces and plywood frames contribute structural support. High-density insulation helps maintain temperature control, and LED lighting enhances energy efficiency. Hydroponic systems for growing plants represent a commitment to integrating greenery into urban living.

The design incorporates movable floor plates in the living areas, allowing residents to change the layout according to their needs. This detail enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a more dynamic living environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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