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Wind-Filtering Towers With Porous Glass and Recycled Materials For Sustainable Living

Authors:
Fanglei Liu, Xuehao Wang, Jiahe Li
Wind-Filtering Towers With Porous Glass and Recycled Materials For Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Engineered with wind-filtering towers built from porous glass and recycled materials, the design addresses arid environmental challenges while providing sustainable living spaces within a transformed desert landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wind-filtering towers utilize porous glass to improve air quality by capturing sand and dust particles.
02
Micro-gardens integrated within the structure enhance local biodiversity and provide sustainable food sources.
03
The use of recycled materials reduces environmental impact while promoting the circular economy.
04
The design adapts to wind dynamics, optimizing airflow and creating a comfortable microclimate.
05
Cultural motifs are incorporated into the architecture, reinforcing local identity and heritage.
"The Tribe of Wind" is an architectural project that addresses environmental challenges posed by desertification and sandstorms in northern China, particularly near the Gobi Desert. The design consists of multiple interconnected towers that function as both habitable structures and environmental interventions. Primary goals include creating a sustainable living environment while finding innovative ways to mitigate the impact of harsh climatic conditions.

The project combines advanced engineering techniques with sustainable practices. The towers are designed to filter sand particles from the wind, improving local air quality and providing a protective barrier for the surrounding community. By integrating micro-gardens within the architecture, the project enhances biodiversity and helps restore the local ecosystem, converting the arid landscape into a productive environment.

Sustainable Material Use and Design Innovation

A significant characteristic of "The Tribe of Wind" is its focus on materiality and efficiency. The project employs porous glass for exterior layers, allowing sunlight to penetrate while reducing exposure to sand. Concrete provides structural integrity, while natural fibers are incorporated to augment the design with biophilic elements, promoting a connection to the environment. The usage of recycled materials further emphasizes the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Moreover, the architecture is adaptive, responding to the natural conditions of the site. The buildings are engineered to optimize airflow, creating a comfortable microclimate for residents. This adaptive capability is a distinctive aspect compared to conventional structures, offering a dynamic solution for environmental challenges.

Community-Centric Architectural Design

In addition to its environmental functionalities, "The Tribe of Wind" serves as a community hub. The towers are designed to accommodate educational spaces, workshops, and communal areas, fostering social interaction and community resilience. This emphasis on community-building sets the project apart from typical residential developments that often prioritize aesthetics over social function.

The integration of traditional cultural motifs in the architectural design enhances a sense of identity and place. Local materials and design principles inform the overall aesthetic, establishing a connection to the region’s heritage while providing modern amenities.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of "The Tribe of Wind," interested readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin this project. These elements offer deeper insights into its spatial organization, functionality, and innovative solutions for addressing environmental challenges in arid regions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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