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Vertical Gardens and Wood Lattice Screens Enhancing Urban Living in Rome

Authors:
Mona mohieeldin Ibrahim, Meryem canan Durak, Rabia Gurkan
Vertical Gardens and Wood Lattice Screens Enhancing Urban Living in Rome

Project in-detail

With its innovative use of vertical gardens and elegant wood lattice screens, this co-living environment in Rome redefines urban residential spaces by fostering community engagement while embracing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The integration of vertical gardens enhances biodiversity while improving air quality within the urban environment.
02
Wood lattice screens provide natural ventilation and privacy while contributing to the building’s aesthetic appeal.
03
The flexible layout accommodates various family configurations, allowing for a dynamic living experience.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer fire resistance and a unique textural contrast against modern elements.
05
Community spaces are strategically designed to promote interaction and collaboration among residents.
This architectural design project focuses on reimagining urban living through a co-living concept situated within the historical context of Rome. By marrying modern residential needs with the intricate fabric of the city, the project not only aims to create functional living spaces but also works to foster a strong sense of community among residents. The design highlights the potential of adaptive reuse and integrates sustainable practices to address contemporary challenges faced by urban centers.

The essence of the project lies in its ability to utilize available space efficiently while maintaining an open dialogue with the surrounding environment. The architecture is meticulously planned to accommodate private, semi-private, and communal areas, enabling residents to engage meaningfully with one another. This thoughtful approach reflects the social architecture of traditional Roman public spaces, where interaction and community are central.

A notable aspect of the project is its emphasis on flexibility. The housing units are designed to cater to diverse demographics, including singles, couples, and families. This modularity allows for various configurations that can adapt over time, responding to the evolving needs of its occupants. Each unit is crafted to provide privacy while also being part of a larger communal setting that promotes social interaction through shared amenities.

The architectural materials chosen for the project play a significant role in its intended function and aesthetic appeal. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity and durability, forming the backbone of the design. Large glass panels are strategically integrated to enhance natural light and create transparency between indoor and outdoor environments. This design decision not only fosters a connection with the outdoors but also encourages energy efficiency through passive solar gain.

To soften the building's visual mass, wooden lattice screens are employed, balancing privacy and openness. This element also adds warmth to the overall aesthetic, aligning the project with the surrounding architectural language of Rome. Furthermore, the project incorporates green walls and vertical gardens, which not only contribute to the biodiversity of the area but also improve air quality and the well-being of residents. The thoughtful integration of these sustainable features reflects a commitment to the ecological principles that are increasingly vital in modern architectural design.

The communal areas within the development serve as a central hub for residents, fostering a sense of belonging. These spaces are designed for collaboration, leisure, and learning, allowing residents to share resources, skills, and experiences. By creating an environment that promotes interaction, the project aims to build a vibrant community that goes beyond mere cohabitation.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout, particularly in how the project addresses urban challenges. By prioritizing communal living and sustainability in a densely populated area, it provides a viable solution to the problems of isolation and environmental degradation often found in urban settings. The incorporation of greenery throughout the building mitigates urban heat and enhances aesthetic value while emphasizing the importance of nature within the city.

This architectural project represents a harmonious blend of function, community, and sustainability, tailored to meet the needs of modern urban dwellers. By seamlessly integrating into the existing urban fabric, it stands as a progressive example of how architecture can cultivate a sense of place and belonging amidst the complexities of city life.

For a deeper understanding of the project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that showcase its innovative approaches, we encourage you to explore the project presentation in detail. Discover how these elements come together to create a thoughtful and engaging living environment in the heart of Rome.
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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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