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Vertical Living with Interchangeable Wings and Communal Gardens

Author:
Lilly Barboza
Vertical Living with Interchangeable Wings and Communal Gardens
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Incorporating vertical planters and modular living units, the design features interchangeable wings that enhance spatial adaptability, supporting a sustainable community of affordable housing in Melbourne.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical planters are integrated into the facade to enhance greening and biodiversity.
02
The design allows for the central stair and elevator core to be removed for smaller lot configurations.
03
Four base residential unit types pair with two interchangeable wings for versatile living arrangements.
04
Communal gardens promote social interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community.
05
Natural ventilation strategies are incorporated to enhance indoor air quality and comfort.

Tower Vista is located in Melbourne, Australia, and aims to meet the city’s rising demand for affordable housing. As Melbourne's population is expected to grow to over 8 million by 2050, there is an increasing need for sustainable living solutions. The design focuses on providing homeownership opportunities, particularly for the two-thirds of residents currently renting. Drawing inspiration from the relationship between plants and people, the project emphasizes the importance of sunlight and space for growth.

Design Concept

The concept behind Tower Vista highlights how both plants and people thrive in environments filled with light. This idea shapes the building's layout, which resembles a vertical garden system. The design encourages the use of vertical space while allowing for abundant natural light and greenery. By integrating these elements, the project connects urban living with sustainable practices.

Building Configuration

Tower Vista is designed to fit on small urban lots as compact as 14 by 20 meters. The careful arrangement of the building allows for a central stair and elevator core, which can be adjusted or even removed for smaller lots. This flexibility makes effective use of space. The building features three different floor plate configurations, designed for commercial, communal, and residential purposes, which enhances its adaptability to various needs.

Residential Matrix

At the heart of the design is the Residential Unit Matrix, comprising four main unit types that can be combined with two interchangeable wings. This modular approach results in eight distinct living layouts. This versatility accommodates different family sizes and living situations. The project offers a range of apartment types, including small one-bedroom studios suitable for students, two-bedroom units for small families, and three-bedroom options for larger households.

Community Integration

Tower Vista emphasizes community spaces, incorporating gardens that encourage interaction among residents. The design prioritizes natural ventilation and indirect light, promoting a healthy living environment. These features enhance the overall quality of life and help build a sense of community within the urban area.

The careful placement of windows in Tower Vista allows for panoramic views, adding an enriching detail to the residential experience.

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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