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Vertical Gardens and Tamarind Wood Integrate Sustainable Living in Rural Habitat

Author:
Eleonore Levieux
Vertical Gardens and Tamarind Wood Integrate Sustainable Living in Rural Habitat
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Constructed with vertical gardens and tamarind wood, the microclimatic ti'kaz serves as a sustainable living space that enhances ecological balance and reflects the cultural heritage of Reunion Island.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with vertical gardens, enhancing biodiversity and food production.
02
Utilizes tamarind wood shingles for solar energy collection and thermal regulation.
03
Incorporates a sophisticated rainwater harvesting system through a wooden mantling.
04
Designed with a west-facing veranda to protect against trade winds while maximizing light.
05
Features phytodepuration beds that integrate local flora for ecological sustainability.

The microclimatic ti'kaz reinterprets the traditional Creole hut in the unique environment of Reunion Island. It serves as a self-sufficient living space that harmonizes with the surrounding nature, creating a home that purifies the air and provides food. The design focuses on making a sustainable lifestyle possible while connecting with local culture, addressing the realities of urbanization and dependence on external resources.

Spatial Organization

A notable feature of the microclimatic ti'kaz is its emphasis on outdoor living, a crucial aspect of daily life in the region. The layout includes a veranda oriented to the west, providing shelter from the strong trade winds while welcoming natural light and airflow. This combination enhances the interaction between indoor and outdoor areas, making the living experience more enjoyable and effective.

Water Management

The design incorporates an efficient rainwater harvesting system, highlighted by a wooden mantling that directs rainwater appropriately. Beneath the side walls, small bushes are planted to absorb water, preventing unnecessary splashing. These plants not only contribute to the system but also support phytodepuration, enhancing the ecological stability of the habitat.

Vertical Gardens

Surrounding the structure are vertical hydrological gardens made from bamboo panels, which create an environment that is both breathable and productive. This design element enriches the visual appeal of the building and promotes biodiversity. These gardens are essential for regulating the microclimate, emphasizing the thoughtful integration of green features in the overall concept.

Innovative Roofing

The roofing system uses tamarind wood shingles that collect solar energy and help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This material serves practical needs, providing domestic hot water and a backup heating source during cooler periods. The careful selection of materials shows a dedication to energy efficiency that aligns with the local climate.

The microclimatic ti'kaz reflects practical design that focuses on ecological balance and cultural relevance, featuring vertical gardens that showcase the island's biodiversity and enhance the home’s sustainable narrative.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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