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Vertical Gardens and Photovoltaic Facades Transforming Urban Living In Reinforced Concrete Structures

Authors:
Maria Turcu, Mihai Mitrică, Alina Măldărescu, Alina Lixeanu
Vertical Gardens and Photovoltaic Facades Transforming Urban Living In Reinforced Concrete Structures

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and photovoltaic facades into its reinforced concrete structure, the design elevates urban living by seamlessly integrating natural elements, creating a vibrant community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates vertical gardens that enhance biodiversity and improve air quality.
02
Photovoltaic panels are embedded within the façade to promote energy efficiency.
03
The multi-faceted building design maximizes natural light while minimizing heat gain.
04
Suspended walkways connect different volumes, enhancing user interaction throughout the space.
05
Public and communal areas are strategically designed to foster community engagement and collaboration.
The architectural project under consideration represents a thoughtful integration of nature and urban living, situated in the northern part of Bucharest, Romania. Designed to serve as both a functional space and a community hub, this project underscores the importance of sustainable architecture in contemporary urban settings. By emphasizing harmony between built forms and their surrounding environments, the design strives to enhance the quality of life for residents while also addressing pressing ecological concerns.

At its core, the project serves multiple functions, including residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The architectural approach is marked by the careful organization of distinct volumes that create a dynamic silhouette against the Bucharest skyline. The tallest structure serves as a visual anchor, featuring an innovative multi-faceted façade that reflects the changing light throughout the day. This design not only provides aesthetic intrigue but also facilitates passive solar heating and cooling, promoting energy efficiency.

One of the standout features of this architectural design is its commitment to green integration. Vertical gardens adorn the façades, while expansive terraces filled with native plant species contribute to biodiversity and foster a sense of community stewardship towards the environment. The thoughtful layout allows for communal green spaces that serve as gathering spots for residents and visitors alike, effectively bridging the gap between public and private realms. This design encourages social interaction, creating opportunities for community engagement and collaboration among different user groups.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall character of the project. The use of reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural support while ensuring longevity. Transparent laminated glass is employed extensively to enhance natural light within the interiors and create visual connections with the external green environments. The integration of metallic cladding lends a modern touch and responds well to the dynamic urban context of Bucharest. Photovoltaic panels are also incorporated within the design, reinforcing the building's sustainability agenda by generating clean energy for the occupants.

The functional attributes of the project are structured to optimize user experience. The ground floor is devoted to public usage, featuring cafes, retail spaces, and flexible areas for meetings or small events. This encourages foot traffic and promotes interaction between the users and the surrounding neighborhood. Above this level, the office spaces are designed with adaptability in mind, allowing individual firms to configure their environments according to specific needs for collaboration and innovation.

Another noteworthy aspect is the design’s responsiveness to the local climate. The architectural planning includes extensive overhangs and strategically placed windows that facilitate natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems for heating and cooling. Furthermore, the roof gardens serve as both amenities for occupants and insulation, enhancing the thermal performance of the building while providing scenic vistas of the cityscape.

The project's architectural details and innovative design approaches reflect an overarching philosophy that values sustainability, community, and connectivity. By prioritizing a non-linear relationship between the natural and built environments, it fosters a space where urban life can thrive in balance with the ecological context.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into this architectural achievement, a thorough exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will certainly provide a more comprehensive understanding of how this project stands as a model for future developments in urban architecture. This initiative invites readers to engage with the intricacies of its design and consider its implications in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.
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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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