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Vertical Gardens Enhanced By Biophilic Design Utilizing Glass And Sustainable Materials

Author:
Berkin Islam
Vertical Gardens Enhanced By Biophilic Design Utilizing Glass And Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and biophilic design principles with a facade of glass and sustainable materials, this mixed-use development redefines urban living by seamlessly blending residential and commercial spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical gardens incorporate native plant species to enhance biodiversity.
02
The facade utilizes high-performance glass to optimize natural light.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance and fire protection.
04
Mixed-use space prioritizes community interaction through shared gardens.
05
Structural design features a cantilevered element for increased usable outdoor space.

**Overview**
Located in a densely populated urban area, the Nexus Vertical Gardens project integrates mixed-use functionalities within a dual-tower configuration, addressing the challenges of modern urban living. The design promotes community interaction while prioritizing sustainability, creating a cohesive environment that supports both residential and commercial activities.

**Spatial Configuration and User Experience**
The architectural layout emphasizes mixed-use functionality, combining residential units, office spaces, and retail areas to foster an integrated living and working environment. Public access points and communal spaces are strategically positioned to facilitate movement and encourage social interaction among occupants and visitors. Vertical connectivity is ensured through thoughtfully designed elevators and stairwells, promoting accessibility throughout the structure.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**
Key materials are selected for their aesthetic and ecological contributions. Extensive use of glass allows natural light to penetrate interior spaces while providing views of the surrounding landscape. Concrete serves as the primary structural element for durability, complemented by a steel framework that supports expansive open areas. Wood is incorporated in select regions to enhance warmth and texture, creating a harmonious relationship with the vertical gardens and green roofs. The inclusion of soil-based systems in these gardens not only supports biodiversity but also offers insulation and enhances the overall visual appeal of the building.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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