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Vertical Living Through Modular Design and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing

Authors:
HAIMING WANG, ZIYUE YU, YUANYE ZHAO, ZICHUN YANG
Vertical Living Through Modular Design and Sustainable Materials in Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Modular living units arranged vertically incorporate sustainable materials and green spaces to address Hong Kong's urban housing needs through an innovative approach to community dwelling.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed for flexibility, accommodating various household types within the same structure.
02
Vertical gardens are integrated into the facade to enhance urban biodiversity and resident well-being.
03
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles to improve durability and reduce maintenance needs.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed glass facades in each living unit.
05
Community spaces are seamlessly incorporated at multiple levels to foster social interaction among residents.

The architectural project "The Overhead Department" is situated in the dense urban landscape of Hong Kong. This project responds to the city's pressing housing challenges by introducing modular living units designed for efficient use of vertical space. The primary objective is to provide affordable housing solutions while fostering community interaction and incorporating sustainable practices. The project reflects a contemporary approach to urban living, integrating social, environmental, and economic considerations into its design.

Architectural Design and Unique Features

The project emphasizes a modular configuration of living units, which accommodates varying household types ranging from singles to families. This flexibility allows for a diverse demographic to find suitable housing within the same structure. The design incorporates outdoor terraces and communal spaces, which serve not only as transitional areas but also as social hubs for residents. The use of vertical gardens enhances the living experience, promoting biodiversity and providing residents with access to green space in a densely populated environment.

The verticality of the design is a critical aspect that sets this project apart from conventional housing solutions. By stacking living modules, the project maximizes the relatively small footprint available in urban areas. This approach not only addresses the issue of limited ground space but also enhances natural light penetration and airflow within the units. The split-level design creates varied spatial experiences, which contrast with the often uniform layouts found in traditional apartment buildings.

Sustainable Practices and Materiality

Sustainability is a core principle underlying the design of "The Overhead Department." The inclusion of eco-friendly materials and systems underscores a commitment to environmental stewardship. Reinforced concrete and steel framing are utilized for structural stability, while glass facades allow for natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. The project aims to minimize energy consumption through passive design strategies, ensuring comfortable living conditions for residents while lowering overall environmental impact.

Moreover, the thoughtful integration of green roofs and landscaped terraces provides ecological benefits and aesthetic value. These spaces not only enhance the microclimate around the building but also serve as community gardens, fostering social interaction among residents. The overall design promotes a sense of well-being and community engagement, essential for urban living.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, including specific architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into its unique features, sustainable practices, and the innovative approaches employed in the design.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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