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Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Author:
Aram Shahoyan
Vertical Gardens and Recycled Concrete in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and recycled concrete, the design optimizes natural light and air circulation to create a sustainable living space that promotes urban agriculture and enhances resident wellbeing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes vertical farming systems integrated into interior spaces for year-round food production.
02
Features a central atrium that enhances natural light and facilitates airflow throughout the residence.
03
Employs perforated steel elements for shading, creating patterns that enhance aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates large glass panels to blur boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Uses a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability while allowing for expansive living areas.

### Concept Overview
"House of the Light," situated in a modern urban context, prioritizes the integration of natural elements, advanced technology, and sustainable practices. Its design is informed by contemporary challenges faced in densely populated areas, notably the need for improved food production and environmental sustainability. The structure incorporates vertical farming alongside eco-friendly features to enhance the livability of urban environments.

### Spatial Strategy
The design employs an open spatial configuration that promotes natural light and greenery throughout the building. A central atrium serves as a vertical garden, contributing to improved air quality and visual aesthetics. Large skylights in the upper levels further enhance light penetration, fostering an airy atmosphere while minimizing energy requirements. The layout includes fluid forms, with arches and curves that add a sense of elegance and continuity to the interior spaces.

### Materiality and Technological Integration
Sustainable material choices play a critical role in the construction of the building. Recycled concrete forms the main structural walls, while perforated steel shades provide sunlight protection and contribute cultural patterns to the façade. Glass elements are strategically used to create transparency and enhance interaction between interior spaces and the landscape. Advanced technology is integrated throughout, including a dedicated drone landing zone for logistics and maintenance, as well as a VR/AR room for immersive experiences, reflecting a commitment to adapting to future technological advancements.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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