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Vertical Gardens and Transparent Facades Utilizing Concrete and Glass for Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Mohammad Pirdavari
Vertical Gardens and Transparent Facades Utilizing Concrete and Glass for Sustainable Urban Living
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Integrating vertical gardens into its modular design, the structure utilizes concrete and glass to enhance urban sustainability while promoting community engagement through flexible living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical gardens on rooftops for enhanced air quality and urban biodiversity.
02
Utilizes a modular design to provide customizable living spaces for diverse resident needs.
03
Features extensive glass facades to maximize natural light and offer visual connections to the landscape.
04
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to support irrigation and enhance sustainability.
05
Complements its concrete structure with a mix of steel and wood for improved aesthetic warmth.

## Interactive Environments and Smart Space Project Overview

Located in a diverse topographical landscape, this residential design project integrates interactive environments and smart living solutions. The development comprises several interconnected units that respond to the evolving needs of modern urban life, emphasizing sustainability, community engagement, and the well-being of residents.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Integration

The architectural layout features three modular tower units, arranged to provide flexible configurations that cater to varying residential needs. The design prioritizes interconnected living areas to facilitate seamless circulation and interaction among residents. Dedicated interactive spaces are incorporated to host social and cultural activities, fostering a sense of community. Additionally, rooftop vertical gardens enhance both aesthetics and functionality, improving air quality and providing sustainable food sources.

### Material Selection and Environmental Impact

Careful consideration of materials is central to the project’s design ethos, promoting sustainability and aesthetic value. Concrete is employed for structural integrity, while extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and transparency. Wood elements in flooring and walls provide warmth, complemented by steel components for strength and modern appeal. The strategic integration of greenery throughout the structure underscores the commitment to biophilic design, enhancing the living environment and contributing to residents' mental well-being. Sustainable features, such as a rainwater collection system, are implemented to support ecological stewardship and energy efficiency.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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