Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Vertical Greenery and Precast Concrete Unite in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
YI JUN OOI, YI HUI TAN
Vertical Greenery and Precast Concrete Unite in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical greenery with precast concrete panels, the design creates a sustainable residential tower that addresses urban housing needs while enhancing natural spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular units for flexible living configurations tailored to diverse resident needs.
02
Integrates semi-private garden spaces within the architectural layout to promote interaction with nature.
03
Employs a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation and sustainability in water usage.
04
Features cantilevered balconies to extend living spaces and enhance exterior aesthetics.
05
Incorporates a vertical shear wall for structural stability while maintaining an open design.
The Upsurge Tower is an innovative residential architectural project located in Hong Kong. This tower addresses the challenges of urban housing shortages through efficient design and integration of green spaces within a compact framework. The project aims to create a sustainable living environment, effectively balancing density with ecological considerations.

The function of the Upsurge Tower extends beyond providing residential units; it embodies a comprehensive approach to urban living that fosters community interaction and enhances environmental quality. The architecture is conceptualized to optimize space, allowing for flexible living arrangements while incorporating elements that promote well-being among residents.

Unique Design Approaches

The Upsurge Tower employs a modular design strategy, with individual residential units measuring 5m x 5m. This configuration allows for adaptability and customization, catering to various household types and preferences. An irregular stacking technique is utilized, creating pockets of space that act as semi-private gardens and communal areas. This design promotes an enhanced connection to nature while providing residents with additional living space.

Incorporating greenery plays a crucial role in the overall design. The project integrates a rich array of vegetation through balcony planters and communal green spaces, contributing to air quality management and local biodiversity. This vertical landscape approach establishes a synergy between built and natural environments, which is a distinguishing feature among similar urban residential projects.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The materiality of the Upsurge Tower is meticulously chosen to align with its sustainable design ethos. Key materials include precast concrete for structural components, high-performance glass for maximizing natural light, and locally sourced wood for interior finishes. The incorporation of steel as a primary structural support ensures durability, while the design integrates a rainwater harvesting system to recycle and manage water resources efficiently.

The architectural design also places significant emphasis on natural ventilation and daylighting, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and climate control systems. This holistic approach to sustainability and materiality positions the Upsurge Tower as a model for future residential architecture in urban contexts.

Exploring the Upsurge Tower presentation will offer further insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas. Observing these elements provides a deeper understanding of the project’s function and its unique approach to addressing urban living challenges. Consider examining these detailed representations to appreciate fully how this project contributes to contemporary architectural discourse.
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 17,249 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