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Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete Forming a Sustainable Community Retreat

Author:
Alexander Silk
Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete Forming a Sustainable Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Harnessing sustainable materials like recycled concrete and incorporating vertical gardens, this community retreat fosters a unique blend of nature and modern living, redefining urban residential experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for both strength and sustainability in construction.
03
Features charred wooden shingles to reduce maintenance and increase durability against the elements.
04
Includes extensive vertical gardens that promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Strategically integrates community spaces on the ground floor to foster social interaction among residents.
The Urban Oasis project represents a thoughtful approach to modern living within an urban context, integrating nature and community into a cohesive architectural design. It occupies a strategic location in [City Name], where the complexities of urban life often overshadow the need for green spaces and community interaction. This architectural endeavor stands as a response to those challenges, developing a structure that not only serves as a residence but also as a communal hub fostering both social engagement and environmental awareness.

At its core, the Urban Oasis project is designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents through various thoughtful features and principles. The architectural design prioritizes biophilic elements, aimed at reconnecting individuals with nature in an increasingly constructed environment. This connection is facilitated through the implementation of extensive landscaping, including vertical gardens and green terraces that punctuate the building’s exterior. These features enhance biodiversity while providing residents with opportunities for relaxation and interaction with nature, emphasizing wellness in urban settings.

The architectural function of the Urban Oasis extends beyond mere habitation. It is designed to facilitate community interactions through communal spaces, including gardens, lounges, and open areas that encourage social gatherings among residents. The thoughtful arrangement of these spaces reflects a commitment to fostering a sense of community, essential in modern urban living. The ground level serves as a vibrant space that welcomes the public and residents alike, blurring the boundaries between private and communal areas and promoting inclusivity.

Key design elements contribute to this project's success. The building features a unique massing strategy characterized by cascading terraces and curvilinear forms. This approach not only provides visual interest but also maximizes natural light and airflow throughout the interior spaces. The integration of high-performance glazing reduces energy consumption and enhances the environmental performance of the building, allowing for optimal daylight while minimizing glare and heat gain.

In terms of materiality, the Urban Oasis employs a range of sustainably sourced materials that align with its ecological ethos. Recycled concrete forms the structural backbone of the building, presenting a responsible choice that minimizes the environmental impact of construction. The warm tones of sustainably sourced wood used in the interiors create an inviting atmosphere while ensuring a connection to the natural world. The implementation of green roofs not only enhances stormwater management but also contributes to the thermal efficiency of the building, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of sustainable design principles.

The Urban Oasis project showcases a series of unique design approaches that set it apart from typical residential developments. One notable feature is its focus on vertical gardening, which transforms the façade into a living ecosystem that evolves with the seasons. This engagement with nature extends to the residents, who are encouraged to participate in maintaining these spaces, thus fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their environment.

By inviting nature into the heart of urban life, the Urban Oasis encapsulates a forward-thinking vision of architecture that seeks to enhance the human experience. The careful articulation of space, combined with strategic landscaping and sustainable materials, establishes a model for future developments in urban areas. It exemplifies how architecture can play a pivotal role in addressing the needs of modern society while fostering community and promoting sustainability.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts may provide additional insights into the thoughtful intentions behind the Urban Oasis. Examining these elements can reveal the intricate balance between innovation, functionality, and environmental consciousness that defines this project.
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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
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