Get inspired!

17,072 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Green Walls With Recycled Concrete And Sustainable Wood Create A Multifunctional Urban Space

Authors:
Deokho Kim, Yihui Li, Eunbin Kwon, Yoonseok Heo
Vertical Green Walls With Recycled Concrete And Sustainable Wood Create A Multifunctional Urban Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical green walls and recycled concrete, the design transforms urban space into a multifunctional recycling facility and community workspace that promotes sustainability and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates recycled concrete as a primary structural element.
02
Features integrated vertical green walls that improve air quality.
03
Utilizes large glass panels to enhance natural light throughout.
04
Includes shared community labs for educational initiatives in recycling.
05
Employs a flexible layout to adapt to various multifunctional activities.
The "Up-Cycling Tree" is an architectural design project centered around the idea of integrating urban recycling functions within a mixed-use workspace. Located in an urban environment, the project serves as both a recycling facility and an office space, promoting sustainability and community engagement. It is designed to facilitate diverse activities including commercial usage, research, and education about recycling practices, thereby addressing environmental challenges through architecture.

The building's primary function is to provide a space that encourages recycling while serving as a community hub. By incorporating different levels for various activities, the project fosters collaboration among businesses, researchers, and community members. This multifunctionality is a key aspect of the design, allowing the facility to adapt to the needs of its users.

Unique Design Approaches

The "Up-Cycling Tree" distinguishes itself through its vertical design strategy. By maximizing vertical space, the project efficiently accommodates multiple functions in a limited footprint often found in urban settings. This vertical integration promotes accessibility and interaction between the various components of the building.

Materiality is another significant element of this project. The design utilizes recycled concrete as a primary structural material, which supports the project's sustainability goals. Additionally, large glass elements are integrated throughout the façade to enhance natural light and create a connection to the environment. Steel is employed for structural stability, while sustainable wood finishes add warmth to the interiors.

Green walls incorporated into the design not only contribute to the aesthetics but also improve air quality and thermal performance. This biophilic approach links the building to its natural surroundings, reinforcing the project’s environmental ethos.

Innovative features such as educational labs and flexible workspaces further enhance the project's community focus, inviting public participation in sustainable practices. The design also considers potential technological advancements such as automated waste transport, aligning the facility with modern innovations.

Overall, the "Up-Cycling Tree" offers a comprehensive architectural solution that holistically addresses environmental concerns while engaging the community. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested individuals are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the unique architectural ideas it embodies.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,072 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy