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Wind-Driven Energy Capture With High-Performance Glass and Vertical Gardens In a Multifunctional High-Rise

Authors:
Esteban Poveda, Fiorella Granda Granda
Wind-Driven Energy Capture With High-Performance Glass and Vertical Gardens In a Multifunctional High-Rise

Project in-detail

Harnessing wind energy through aerodynamically designed vertical turbines and integrating high-performance glass within a multifunctional high-rise, the structure addresses urban sustainability while providing essential community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aerodynamic form optimizes wind energy collection through integrated vertical turbines.
02
High-performance glass promotes passive heating and cooling while maximizing natural light.
03
Dual water filtration system powered by wind energy enhances local water quality.
04
Incorporation of indigenous cultural elements fosters community connection and awareness.
05
Vertical gardens improve biodiversity and contribute to urban ecological balance.

The UNA skyscraper project, located in Wellington, New Zealand, represents a significant advancement in sustainable architecture. This mixed-use development integrates residential, commercial, and public spaces to create a multifunctional environment that responds to the unique challenges posed by the local climate and community needs. The design employs innovative strategies that harness natural elements to promote energy efficiency and water conservation, making it a relevant architectural solution for urban living.

Design Approach and Unique Features

UNA's design prioritizes aerodynamics, utilizing a tapering form that maximizes wind energy capture while minimizing wind resistance. The building features integrated vertical wind turbines that convert kinetic energy into electricity, reducing reliance on grid power. The architectural approach focuses on sustainability, with a dual water filtration system that uses wind-generated energy to purify water, providing an essential resource for the community.

The integration of green spaces around the base of the structure enhances biodiversity and promotes local flora and fauna. The inclusion of community-oriented facilities, such as educational centers and recreational areas, sets UNA apart from conventional skyscrapers. This mixed-use component fosters social interaction and encourages community engagement, providing a holistic living experience.

Architectural Integration and Contextualization

UNA's architectural integration within Wellington's urban landscape is deliberate. The building's form and functionality are designed to resonate with the city’s geographical features, which include coastal winds and varied topography. The project encompasses large expanses of high-performance glass, allowing natural light to permeate interior spaces while reducing energy consumption. This transparency not only provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape but also creates a visual connection between the tower and the city.

The thoughtful incorporation of indigenous cultural elements within the design signifies a respect for local heritage and promotes cultural awareness.

For those interested in a detailed exploration of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, further examination of UNA offers insights into its innovative strategies and architectural ideas that address contemporary urban challenges.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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