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Vertical Living With Glass Facades And Concrete Structures Enhancing Community Interaction

Authors:
Richard Prugger, Simon Kimmel
Vertical Living With Glass Facades And Concrete Structures Enhancing Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Elevated communal platforms and expansive glass facades redefine urban living in Hong Kong's latest residential towers, creating an adaptable space that fosters community while maximizing vertical space efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated communal platforms connect residential units, fostering social interactions among residents.
02
Modular living spaces allow for flexible configurations that adapt to individual needs.
03
Transparent glass facades maximize natural light and enhance the connection with the urban environment.
04
Sustainable materials, such as concrete and steel, are used to create durable, low-maintenance structures.
05
Integrated green spaces support biodiversity and contribute to residents’ overall well-being.
The architectural project titled "Praising the Vertical" presents a thoughtful response to the complex housing challenges faced in densely populated urban environments, particularly in Hong Kong. This project reinterprets the concept of vertical living, transforming it into a solution that not only maximizes space but also fosters community engagement among residents. By utilizing vertical structures, the design emphasizes adaptability and efficiency in living, reflecting current needs in an urban context where land is at a premium.

At its core, "Praising the Vertical" functions as a multifamily housing development that provides essential living spaces for individuals or small families. The design includes multiple residential towers that are carefully stacked to create a compact yet flourishing community. Each unit is tailored to accommodate one or two occupants, ensuring that the design remains practical for various household configurations. The intent is to promote a living environment that encourages social interaction while providing comfort and utility.

The project features several important elements that highlight its innovative approach. The housing units are organized in a vertical arrangement, with apartments distinctly layered to enhance the spatial organization. Communal platforms between units serve as gathering spaces, encouraging interactions among residents and creating an array of social opportunities. This design approach not only addresses physical needs but also nurtures the sense of community, allowing the inhabitants to engage with one another in shared experiences.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project's identity and functionality. The use of concrete as the structural foundation lends both stability and durability to the towers, while steel bars provide essential support for open interiors that facilitate natural light and ventilation. Expansive glass facades further contribute to the project's transparency, connecting the residents visually with the surrounding urban landscape and allowing for natural lighting throughout the day. The inclusion of curtains and panels provides inhabitants with flexible privacy options, aligning the design with contemporary living needs.

Unique design approaches in "Praising the Vertical" are evident throughout its conception and execution. The architecture captures the essence of flexible living by allowing for various configurations within the units. Each apartment can adapt based on residents' personal requirements, offering a level of versatility uncommon in standard housing projects. Additionally, the project integrates green spaces within the architecture, setting aside areas where flora can thrive, which not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to residents' well-being.

A noteworthy aspect of the design is its scalability and modularity. Future phases of development can be seamlessly integrated, allowing expansions to occur without compromising the community's existing fabric. This flexibility is essential in addressing the ever-evolving nature of urban life, adapting the space to align with the changing needs of its residents.

In conclusion, "Praising the Vertical" offers a nuanced exploration of urban architecture, showcasing how vertical design can effectively respond to the multifaceted challenges of housing in a metropolitan setting. By prioritizing community engagement, effective use of space, and sustainable practices, this project exemplifies forward-thinking architectural ideas. To gain a deeper understanding of this project and its detailed aspects, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with these elements will provide valuable insights into the process and outcomes of this innovative architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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