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Vertical Gardens With Hydroponics and Sustainable Steel Structures Enhancing Urban Living

Author:
Dutra Brown
Vertical Gardens With Hydroponics and Sustainable Steel Structures Enhancing Urban Living

Project in-detail

Combining hydroponics and vertical gardens within a framework of steel and glass, the design redefines urban living by seamlessly integrating sustainability and community spaces into residential environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates an aquaponics system that cultivates fish and plants within the same ecosystem.
02
Features vertical gardens to maximize space while enhancing biodiversity.
03
Utilizes steel frames for durability and structural integrity in an urban setting.
04
Promotes community interaction through public markets integrated into residential areas.
05
Prioritizes natural light with extensive use of glass facades throughout the design.

The project "The New French Formal" is an architectural initiative located along the Canal Saint-Martin in Paris, designed to tackle urban housing shortages while promoting sustainability through innovative agricultural practices. This design merges residential spaces with functional landscapes and community agriculture, drawing inspiration from the historical gardens of the city. The integration of multiple programmatic elements characterizes the design, offering solutions that address contemporary urban living challenges.

Sustainability and community engagement are pivotal to the project. By incorporating green living systems, including aquaponics and hydroponics, the design seeks to create a harmonious relationship between urban residents and food production. This approach not only maximizes the efficient use of space but also contributes to local biodiversity.

Unique Integration of Aquaponics and Urban Living
A distinctive feature of "The New French Formal" is its implementation of an aquaponic system. This system combines fish farming with hydroponics, allowing for the cultivation of plants without soil while simultaneously supporting fish production. This relationship fosters a self-sustaining ecosystem that is both productive and educational, encouraging residents to engage with their food sources responsibly. Such an integrated approach differentiates this project from other developments by actively promoting sustainable practices within a residential context.

Architectural Composition and Community Spaces
The architectural composition of the project reflects a blend of modern design principles with traditional European aesthetics. The use of light materials, such as steel and glass, alongside wooden accents, establishes a contemporary look while maintaining warmth and connection to natural elements. Public spaces, including markets and communal gardens, are thoughtfully interspersed within the residential units, enhancing social interactions among residents. The design emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that outdoor areas encourage communal activities and foster a sense of belonging.

The project's overall architectural strategy captures the essence of urban life in Paris while addressing pressing concerns regarding housing and sustainability. It successfully utilizes innovative design concepts and methods to create a living environment that is functional, engaging, and environmentally responsible.

For those interested in a more in-depth exploration of this architectural project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that underpin "The New French Formal" will provide further insight into its design and functionality.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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