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Vertical Living Utilizes Recycled Aluminum and Sustainable Timber for Dynamic Residential Experience

Author:
Frederik Engelbrecht
Vertical Living Utilizes Recycled Aluminum and Sustainable Timber for Dynamic Residential Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing a vertical design that incorporates recycled aluminum and sustainable timber, the structure offers an engaging living space that emphasizes interaction and environmental consciousness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled aluminum for exterior cladding, enhancing durability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a vertical wind turbine to generate renewable energy for the unit.
03
Features a rainwater collection system integrated into the design for resource efficiency.
04
Designed with spiral stairs promoting fluid movement and connectivity between levels.
05
Incorporates large glass panels for natural light and a seamless indoor-outdoor relationship.

### Project Overview

The Vertical Light Unit (VLU) is an architectural concept designed to integrate sustainable practices with contemporary living. Located in a verdant landscape, the design emphasizes visibility and interaction, responding to the growing influence of social media on residential environments. The VLU aims to foster an immersive living experience that prioritizes environmental responsibility while educating users about sustainable living.

### Conceptual Framework

**Display Living**
The VLU is characterized by its innovative approach to “display living.” This concept merges the physical space of the home with a platform for interaction and visibility, challenging conventional notions of privacy and public space. By blurring these boundaries, the design seeks to create a residential unit that functions as both a livable space and a visual statement within its context.

**Spatial Organization**
The VLU features a vertically stacked modular design that accommodates distinct living areas across multiple levels. This arrangement enhances spatial experience and includes: a lounge and functional areas on the ground level for social interaction; a workspace and communal roof terrace on the second; and a private bedroom and additional outdoor space on the third. The verticality of the structure encourages movement and engagement with the surrounding environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects the project's commitment to sustainability and aesthetic integrity. Recycled aluminum serves as the exterior cladding for durability, while sustainably sourced timber adds warmth to interior spaces. Expansive glass panels maximize natural light and foster a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The structural framework comprises steel for strength and flexibility, complemented by concrete footings that minimize land disturbance.

Sustainability initiatives within the VLU include a vertical wind turbine for energy generation, a rainwater filtration system for household use, and solar panels designed to support self-sufficiency. These features not only reduce ecological impact but also highlight the importance of sustainable practices to residents and visitors alike.

### Circulation and Interaction

Access within the VLU is facilitated by an internal spiral staircase that promotes vertical movement and serves as a focal point of design. This circulation strategy enhances spatial efficiency while fostering an engaging relationship between the various levels of the unit. The overall design thus embodies a balance of functional living, social interaction, and environmental stewardship, positioning the VLU as a forward-thinking model for future residential developments.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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