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Vertical Gardens and Solar Windows in a Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Authors:
Adrian Paocarima Herrera, Melissa Anabelle Ulcuango Merino, Kevin Daniel Arroyo Males
Vertical Gardens and Solar Windows in a Sustainable Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and solar windows, this mixed-use development integrates sustainable design principles to create vibrant community spaces that enhance urban living in Quito.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates solar windows for improved energy efficiency.
02
Features vertical gardens that enhance air quality and biodiversity.
03
Utilizes modular construction methods for flexibility in design.
04
Integrates community spaces that foster social interaction.
05
Employs local materials to minimize environmental impact.

The "City Playground" project is an innovative architectural design situated in Quito, Ecuador. Its primary aim is to address urban density and the need for communal spaces within a modern city context. The project stands as a response to the challenges posed by rapid population growth and aims to create a multifunctional environment that encourages social interaction among residents while incorporating sustainable practices.

The architectural design incorporates a mixed-use development consisting of residential, commercial, and public spaces. By integrating these various functions, the project promotes a sense of community and accessibility within the urban fabric. The structure is characterized by a dynamic facade that features terraces and green spaces, allowing for a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. The use of natural materials enhances the connection to the local environment, emphasizing the project's commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness.

Innovative Design Approaches

One of the defining features of the "City Playground" project is its approach to verticality and green architecture. The building incorporates solar windows that maximize the entry of natural light while harnessing solar energy, reducing its carbon footprint. Additionally, the integration of vertical gardens on the facade and terraces helps purify the air and regulate temperature, directly contributing to an improved microclimate within the city.

Moreover, extensive use of modular construction elements facilitates adaptability, allowing the building to respond effectively to changing urban demands. The design features natural ventilation systems that improve indoor air quality while minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling methods. These elements exemplify a forward-thinking approach to building design, promoting sustainable living standards.

Community Integration and Functionality

The project is designed with a focus on community engagement, incorporating public spaces that encourage interaction and social activities among residents. The ample outdoor areas and shared amenities foster a sense of belonging and facilitate neighborhood relationships. The layout promotes walkability, making it easier for residents to access commercial areas and communal spaces without reliance on vehicles.

This thoughtful design addresses not only the immediate needs of the community but also anticipates future growth and urban challenges. By utilizing local materials, such as concrete and wood, the project further enhances its sustainability initiatives while reflecting the cultural context of Quito.

For readers interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available for review. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural intentions behind the "City Playground," showcasing how thoughtful design can positively impact urban living.

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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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