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Vertical Gardens and Modular Construction in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Peipei Liu, Xiaojing Qiu, Lili Wang
Vertical Gardens and Modular Construction in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical gardens with modular units, this sustainable urban living solution enhances community engagement while addressing the need for adaptable housing in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates modular construction for flexible living configurations.
02
Features vertical gardens that improve air quality and aesthetics.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to facilitate natural ventilation.
04
Constructed with high-strength concrete for durability and stability.
05
Promotes community interaction through strategically designed shared spaces.

The "Free Breathing Tree" project represents a forward-thinking architectural response to the pressing housing issues faced by urban areas such as Hong Kong. Situated in a densely populated environment, the project intertwines residential living with ecological considerations, aiming to create a sustainable and adaptable living space. Its design revolves around the concept of integrating greenery and modular construction to enhance the quality of life for its occupants.

Flexible Housing Structure

This project distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to flexibility in housing. The design incorporates modular units that can be customized according to individual residents’ needs. This adaptability is critical for urban environments where residents may have varying households or preferences. The modular approach allows for different configurations, enabling residents to combine units for larger living areas or maintain smaller spaces as needed, aligning with changing demographic patterns.

Moreover, the building's structure mimics tree-like qualities, with vertical gardens and outdoor spaces that facilitate natural air circulation and improve the microclimate around the building. This design effectively promotes biodiversity within an urban setting, serving not only as shelter but also as an ecological asset.

Integration of Nature

The integration of natural elements serves as a key component of this architectural project. By incorporating plant life into the design, the project enhances air quality and introduces a biophilic aspect that encourages interaction with nature. Balconies and terraces are designed to support vertical gardens, allowing residential spaces to extend into green environments. This method of combining living spaces with real greenery not only supports the aesthetics of the building but also improves the mental and physical health of its residents.

Structurally, the façade employs a blend of high-strength concrete, light steel, and toughened glass. This combination provides durability while maximizing natural light exposure within living areas. The use of these materials supports energy efficiency, lowering reliance on artificial lighting and reducing overall energy consumption.

Community-Centric Design

In addition to promoting individual adaptability, the "Free Breathing Tree" emphasizes communal spaces to foster social interactions among residents. Shared amenities such as communal gardens, lounges, and recreational spaces are integral parts of the architectural design. These areas are strategically placed to facilitate community engagement, creating opportunities for residents to connect and collaborate.

The design's focus on user-centric spaces aligns with contemporary architectural trends that prioritize community well-being. By providing spaces that encourage socialization and interaction, the project acknowledges the importance of building a sense of belonging in urban environments.

For those interested in exploring the specifics of this project, further details such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs are available for review. These elements provide a more comprehensive understanding of the innovative approaches utilized in the "Free Breathing Tree" project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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