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Vertical Gardens and Seeded Composite Materials Transform Affordable Urban Living

Authors:
Catty dan Zhang, Mahdi Ghavidel-sedehi, Noah Nelson, Teagan Dorsch
Vertical Gardens and Seeded Composite Materials Transform Affordable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Elevating urban living, the integration of vertical gardens with seeded composite materials creates a sustainable habitat that redefines affordable housing in the heart of Belmore.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and ecological stability within the urban context.
02
Seeded composite materials are utilized to create a textured facade that promotes both aesthetic appeal and low maintenance.
03
Modular housing units allow for flexible expansions, accommodating varying family sizes and needs over time.
04
Natural drainage systems are incorporated into the terraced layout, addressing stormwater management effectively.
05
The project’s location near public transport routes encourages sustainable commuting options for residents.
The project centers on a thoughtful architectural design that seeks to redefine affordable housing within an urban context, specifically near Belmore Park. It represents a nuanced understanding of contemporary urban challenges, effectively marrying the necessity for accessible living spaces with a conscientious response to ecological considerations. The design fuses affordability with functionality, creating housing that not only accommodates residents but also integrates them into the vibrancy of the surrounding urban landscape.

Functionally, the project serves as a model for modern urban living, placing emphasis on community and sustainability. At its core, the architecture is designed to foster interaction among residents while maintaining individual privacy. The layout features modular housing units that can be adapted as families grow, promoting longevity and flexibility in urban housing solutions. This adaptability is evident in the overall design approach, which allows for both horizontal and vertical expansions, ensuring residents can engage with their living spaces in a customizable way.

One of the most important aspects of the project is its innovative approach to materiality. The use of seeded composite materials for vertical surfaces contributes to both aesthetic appeal and environmental functionality. This choice not only creates visually engaging structures but also supports ecological health, allowing for the integration of greenery into the urban environment. Glass and metal elements have been employed to enhance transparency and light, creating airy interiors that connect inhabitants with their surroundings. Reinforced concrete serves as the backbone for structural durability, framing the distinct, thin profile of the architecture.

Unique design approaches are prominent throughout the project. The architecture incorporates vertical gardens, serving as a green veil that separates living spaces while promoting biodiversity. This design choice addresses ecological responsibilities, providing residents with a connection to nature amid the urban setting. The tiered architectural configuration reflects the natural topography, which serves a dual purpose of visual appeal and effective stormwater management. By adapting the building to the land, the design minimizes its environmental impact while enhancing its integration with the existing urban fabric.

The layout fosters community interaction through shared public spaces and gardens, encouraging residents to engage with one another and contribute to a dynamic neighborhood environment. This emphasis on communal living amid individual housing solutions represents a progressive stance in the architectural dialogue surrounding urban development. The architectural plans and sections provide insights into the dimensional relationships within the project, revealing how each unit interacts with the larger communal areas. The careful attention to detail in the design further supports the overall vision of enhancing urban life without compromising on comfort or accessibility.

Another noteworthy aspect of the project is its strategic location near public transport routes, boosting connectivity to essential services and amenities. This foresight in planning addresses the growing urbanization trends while ensuring that affordable housing remains a viable option for diverse populations.

Exploring the architectural drawings, sections, and designs will yield a comprehensive understanding of how this project navigates the complexities of modern urban challenges. By examining these elements, readers will appreciate the intricate balance between functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic beauty that underpins this architectural endeavor. There is much to learn from these architectural ideas and how they apply to the future of urban living, making it a worthy exploration for anyone interested in contemporary design practices.
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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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