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Vertical Greenhouse Integration with Translucent Photovoltaic Panels in Urban Living

Authors:
Tomasz Gęsiak, Dominik Munia
Vertical Greenhouse Integration with Translucent Photovoltaic Panels in Urban Living
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Integrating vertical greenhouse cultivation with translucent photovoltaic panels, the design redefines urban living by creating a self-sufficient space that merges residential, commercial, and agricultural functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes greenhouse cultivation on main levels for local food production.
02
Incorporates translucent photovoltaic panels for energy generation.
03
Features strategic light holes to maximize natural daylight access.
04
Integrates a deep foundation for ground-sourced heating and cooling solutions.
05
Designed with vertical segments to enhance urban spatial efficiency.

2km HIGH is an innovative urban development that aims to redefine vertical living. Located in a bustling city environment, the structure integrates residential, commercial, and agricultural spaces within a single vertical framework. The design emphasizes a downward-opening configuration that not only extends the limits of height but also enhances the connection between various functions, allowing for a new way of experiencing urban life.

Architectural Concept

The central idea focuses on maximizing the use of vertical space through multiple 5-storey segments. This design allows for a diverse range of urban activities while mimicking the organization of historic cities, such as Paris and Rome. Important features include internal streets and additional facades, which contribute to a more engaging experience for users. This thoughtful arrangement promotes social interaction and accessibility among the different functions.



Sustainability Features

A key element of the design is its approach to food sustainability. By incorporating greenhouse cultivation directly into the main levels, the project addresses the challenges associated with sourcing perishable goods. This on-site production of fruits and vegetables reduces reliance on external supply chains and helps improve the internal climate, ensuring comfortable temperature and humidity levels.



Lighting and Climate Control

The design also tackles the issue of natural light in a downward-opening structure. Two strategically placed light holes allow daylight to penetrate the building effectively. An internal glazed facade is used to reflect and distribute light throughout the lower levels, preventing darkness in these areas. The deep foundation helps support energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions sourced from the ground, making the building more environmentally friendly.



Energy Independence

Energy provision in 2km HIGH relies on translucent photovoltaic panels located on the upper sections. These panels collect solar energy during the day, which can be stored for later use. This setup enables the efficient transport of utility water to higher floors, where electric turbines can discharge it at night. The design emphasizes self-sufficiency, showcasing a commitment to reducing the ecological footprint of the building.



The project features vertical communication shafts, living and working levels, as well as recreational spaces for greenhouse activities. Each aspect of the structure is carefully designed to create an interconnected urban ecosystem. By blending diverse functions, the development enhances overall quality of life, making it a noteworthy addition to urban architecture.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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