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Vertical Habitat Featuring Green Facades and Community Integration Through Escape Boards

Authors:
QIXIN LIANG, XIN YING, TONGTONG XIAO
Vertical Habitat Featuring Green Facades and Community Integration Through Escape Boards

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens and automated evacuation systems, the design revolutionizes urban living in Hong Kong by integrating nature and community-focused spaces within a multifaceted residential habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical gardens are integrated at multiple levels to promote biodiversity and enhance air quality.
02
The project includes an automated escape board system for improved safety during emergencies.
03
Flexibility in unit designs accommodates various household sizes and lifestyles.
04
Underground ecological plazas provide communal green space and educational facilities.
05
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings in the bent A-frame design.
The architectural project "Hong Kong Citizen in Wonderland" redefines urban living within the densely populated landscape of Hong Kong. This design addresses the pressing need for sustainable habitat solutions in a city characterized by high land use, limited green space, and escalating housing demands. By proposing a vertical living environment interwoven with nature, the project enhances the functionality and quality of urban life, demonstrating an innovative approach to contemporary architecture.

Unique Design Features and Community Integration

A significant aspect of the project is the vertical forest concept, which integrates green terraces at varying heights throughout the structure. These terraces not only serve as private gardens for residents but also contribute to urban biodiversity and air quality improvement. The design promotes engagement with nature, addressing the psychological well-being of inhabitants, which is often compromised in urban settings.

The introduction of public activity layers every five floors is another unique component, encouraging social interactions among residents. These communal spaces facilitate various activities, from social gatherings to recreational pursuits, thereby reducing isolation and fostering a sense of community.

An essential feature of the design is the escape board mechanism, which automatically extends during emergencies, providing an alternative evacuation route. This innovative approach enhances safety while maintaining architectural simplicity. Additionally, the conveyor belt transport system streamlines movement between different units, promoting efficiency in managing household activities.

Specific Functional Spaces and Adaptable Living Units

The project accommodates a range of unit types tailored to diverse household sizes, from singles to families. This adaptability is evident in the flexible floor plans, which are designed to maximize space efficiency and comfort. Specifically designed units for the elderly and disabled ensure that the architecture is inclusive, providing accessibility for all residents.

Moreover, the project's underground sections play a crucial role in urban land use. An ecological plaza offers shared green space, while educational facilities and a shopping area meet the daily needs of residents without disrupting surface-level ecosystems. This multifaceted approach to design underscores a commitment to creating a comprehensive living environment that facilitates community engagement and environmental stewardship.

To fully appreciate the intricacies of "Hong Kong Citizen in Wonderland," readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that underpin this project. Delving into these elements provides a deeper understanding of how this architectural endeavor strives to balance urban living with ecological considerations.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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