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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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