The Winners!
YEARNING TO BREATHE 2023
First Prize Winners
Yuan Xu, Zhihui Bai & Mohan Yang
China
Yuan Xu, Zhihui Bai & Mohan Yang
Could you share your initial inspiration behind your design concept for this competition?
When we received this theme, we could not help but start to reflect on why the city has such a strong desire for green environment. Is urban greening really just to beautify the appearance of the city? If only as a cosmetic function, then the introduction of simple artificial plants seems to achieve the same effect, and its entire life cycle of the building, both acquisition costs and maintenance costs will be reduced accordingly. However, during the exploration, we gradually realized that plants not only have the function of decoration, but also can improve air quality by releasing oxygen, thus having a positive impact on human psychological state. The green environment is often accompanied by the appearance of oxygen enrichment, which makes people's mood more pleasant. On the contrary, the lack of green may lead to the emergence of "urban hypoxia", so that people tend to be depressed. Therefore, we believe that the material circulation and oxygenation cycle created by increasing the area of green space in the city is the real core value of urban greening. On this basis, we gave birth to our design inspiration, the N-0xygen Cycle Community, according to the mutual promotion equation between photosynthesis and aerobic respiration.
Biophilic integration was a central theme of this competition. How did you approach incorporating biophilic elements into your design to enhance the well-being and comfort of the residents?
In design, we are often faced with the problem of how to integrate nature and art. The combination of biophilic elements with other design elements could be one answer.
First of all, through the selection of wood, the planting of plants and the water system left outside the building, we integrate biophile elements into our building, which is used to balance the concrete and metal of modern cities, and bring people a closer feeling to nature. Plants, water and blue sky and white clouds can inject a touch of nature into the urban space, through these elements, create a fresh and natural atmosphere, make people feel more comfortable.
Secondly, the biophile elements we designed can also enhance the natural feeling and comfort of the space. For example, plants can absorb harmful substances in the air, improve air quality, and make people feel more pleasant. At the same time, plants can also add life and vitality to the space, creating a vibrant environment.
Sustainability was a key aspect of the competition objectives. Can you elaborate on the eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and water conservation strategies you implemented in your design?
Choice of environmental protection materials: The building facade material selection of solid wood and waterproof paint decoration. The choice of this material not only perfectly integrates the pulsation of nature in appearance, but also firmly practices the concept of environmental protection in building materials.
Energy system: Given Dubai's location in the middle of the desert, the climate is extremely hot and dry. Therefore, the building intends to build a complete cooling system with the help of vegetation growth and waterfalls flowing down the outside of the building, so as to enhance the superior feeling of the living environment and effectively reduce the frequency of indoor air conditioning.
Innovative water-saving strategy: Considering that there are plenty of water sources in the ditches around the site, the building uses the way of pipeline to introduce abundant river water into the interior to provide sufficient nutrients for watering plants. Water vapor, the final product of plant photosynthesis, will also feed back to nature and realize the beautiful vision of harmonious coexistence between man and nature.
Functionality and comfort were highlighted as important criteria. How did you ensure that your design provided a functional layout, ample storage, and comfortable living areas while still prioritizing biophilic principles?
In the design process, function and comfort were not overlooked, and we adopted the following strategies:
1) Hierarchical sharing in vertical design: by analyzing the needs of different occupants, including age, living habits and social preferences. Based on this, the vertical zoning design aims to create a comfortable and convenient living environment for various residential groups such as the elderly, young people living alone, and families, and ensure that each residential group can find its own functional layout and social places.
2) Fine graphic design: The design of living space is further refined in the horizontal direction, and the living and storage Spaces are carefully planned according to the living characteristics of different occupants. The proportion of private space and public space is differentiated, and at the same time, each floor is in the organic gas circulation system, which brings an eco-friendly environment to the living space, and also reflects the biophilic design.
Ultimately, we hope to achieve a functional and comfortable living environment design, while also incorporating biophile principles into the design details. It is hoped that while improving the quality of life of residents, it also makes some positive contributions to the sustainable development of the city.
Considering the urban context, what challenges did you face in integrating nature-inspired elements into an urban environment, and how did you overcome them?
The main challenge we face is: how to achieve the close contact between people and nature in high-rise buildings, and keep this connection sustainable.
First, we adopted a sustainable design scheme in the atrium area of the building. Through the design of an efficient pipeline transportation system and garbage sorting and recycling balls, high-rise residents are provided with a participatory way to dispose of waste. This not only improves the efficiency of resource recovery, but also enhances residents' sense of participation and responsibility in environmental protection actions.
In addition, we have planned multi-functional public Spaces in the atrium, such as sales, leisure and exhibition areas. By introducing green plants into these Spaces, these public green Spaces not only provide residents with an opportunity to get close to nature, but also promote communication and interaction within the community, enhancing residents' sense of belonging and happiness.
Through the above strategies, natural elements are integrated into the urban environment, which realizes the modern and eco-friendly living space design, and brings practical environmental and psychological benefits to the daily life of residents.
Aesthetics played a significant role in this competition. How did you strike a balance between modern design aesthetics and the organic qualities of biophilic elements in your design?
We believe that biophile design is not only a functional pursuit, but also contains rich aesthetic value. People prefer biophile environments, not only because of their health benefits, but also because the natural aesthetics of such environments are deeply attracted to us. In the design process, we integrate modern design aesthetics and pro-biological elements, hoping to create a harmonious and symbiotic design language. The use of rounded shapes and smooth curves, in response to the natural organic form, meets the aesthetic needs, but also incorporates the environmental concept of gas recycling into the design. The final design results hope to give people a visual enjoyment of beauty, but also in the actual function of the environment to achieve affinity and respect.
Reflecting on the competition experience, what were the most rewarding aspects of participating in Yearning to Breathe 2023, and how do you think this competition has influenced your approach to architecture and design?
One of the most rewarding aspects of participating in Yearning to Breathe 2023 is that we combine biophile design principles with urban living environments to create a healthier and more comfortable living space for people. Through the use of ecological elements such as pipes and green plants, we realize the recycling of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the city and improve air quality, which is of great significance for alleviating the environmental problems caused by the process of urbanization.
The competition had a big impact on our approach to architecture and design. First, the experience gave us a deeper understanding of the concept of biophile design. We realized that in the process of urbanization, the connection between people and nature is crucial for people's quality of life, so more attention should be paid to the introduction of natural elements in the design process. Secondly, the competition also made us pay more attention to the importance of sustainable design. By using environmentally friendly materials, efficient energy systems and water-saving strategies, we can not only reduce the environmental impact of buildings, but also provide a healthier and more livable living environment for residents.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the impact of biophilic design on urban living, and what role do you see architects and designers playing in promoting this approach to sustainable and harmonious urban development?
We believe that eco-friendly design will play an important role in the future of urban life.
On the one hand, eco-friendly design can improve the quality of life and happiness of urban residents. By integrating natural elements into the urban built environment, people can get closer to nature and enjoy the beauty of nature. This helps improve people's mental health and life satisfaction.
On the other hand, ecophile design contributes to the improvement of urban environmental quality. By introducing elements such as green vegetation and natural light, the air can be purified, water quality improved, and a more pleasant climate can be provided. This helps mitigate environmental problems such as urban pollution and climate change.
Architects and designers play multi-dimensional roles. 1. They need to have a deep understanding of eco-friendly design concepts, and fully consider the introduction of natural elements in the design process, and how to maximize the ecological benefits of the building. 2. They need to actively advocate the concept of sustainable development, communicate the importance of eco-design to the public, and promote social awareness and action on sustainable development. 3. They need to constantly explore innovative design concepts and technical means to achieve a harmonious coexistence between city and nature.
Second Prize Winners
Ziye Pan, Fengyin Wang & Run Lin
China
Ziye Pan, Fengyin Wang & Run Lin
Could you share your initial inspiration behind your design concept for this competition?
China is currently experiencing a rapid process of population ageing, which presents significant challenges to social and economic development. Additionally, the quality of life for the elderly in high-density cities has become a major concern. High-rise buildings in cities may lead to issues such as social isolation, limited activities, and reduced contact with nature for the elderly. The team combines biophilic design with aging and suggests that this approach may offer multiple benefits for the daily living, disease recuperation, and spiritual healing of the elderly population. These benefits include a healthy and livable environment, the use of natural elements to alleviate anxiety and depression, and encouragement for the elderly to participate in outdoor activities. With a research-oriented approach, the team aims to design a biophilic apartment for the elderly in a noisy and crowded city. The goal is to address the physical and mental health issues faced by the elderly in their later years. Additionally, the project aims to provide insights for high-rise residential buildings in high-density cities.
Biophilic integration was a central theme of this competition. How did you approach incorporating biophilic elements into your design to enhance the well-being and comfort of the residents?
Our team begins by considering the overall form and layout of the building, utilising open and curved building plans and atriums. These elements are staggered to create well-lit terraces where various types of plants can be grown. The building's overall design flows organically, providing a contrast to the typical box-shaped buildings in the surrounding city. Furthermore, the building's white appearance and open design allow for increased natural light and ventilation, enhancing the elderly's connection with the outdoors. Additionally, the team has incorporated various types of vertical landscapes within the building, featuring natural elements at different heights, such as a water curtain cinema, light and shadow forest, planting garden, and bird-watching platform from bottom to top. Additionally, considering the limited daily activity range of the residents, this can provide them with more opportunities to experience nature. The use of small, lightweight construction residential units instead of traditional walls can improve the privacy of elderly residents, save building materials, and bring them closer to nature and the countryside.
Sustainability was a key aspect of the competition objectives. Can you elaborate on the eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and water conservation strategies you implemented in your design?
The architectural design emphasizes practicality and flexibility through a "1+1" combination mode, consisting of a main space with a side length of 6m and an area of 36㎡, and an auxiliary space with a side length of 3m and an area of 9㎡. The former, designed as an accessible square floor plan, aims to create a seamless and continuous flow of space to meet the living needs of elderly individuals or couples of different ages, including those who use wheelchairs or other assistive devices. The latter, serving as an auxiliary space, can be used as a temporary caregiver's room or a visiting room for children, positioned near the main structure. This approach enhances the adaptability of the building's area to accommodate various types of elderly users.
In terms of building structure and materials, the residential units utilize wood as the structural framework, polycarbonate panels for the roofing, recyclable metal for the building's exterior, and lightweight wooden partitions for the interior walls, maximizing the renewable and recyclable use of building materials to reduce waste.
For natural lighting, the symmetry of the square floor plan provides a stable and balanced atmosphere for both the interior and exterior environments, while also allowing natural light to enter from multiple angles, enhancing the openness and transparency of the space. Polycarbonate panels, used for roofing, achieve an 89% light transmission rate, comparable to glass. During the day, natural light can penetrate the interior, ensuring natural illumination. At night, the light from inside the building can illuminate the exterior space, maximizing the use of natural light and reducing the dependency on artificial lighting and air conditioning.
Regarding insulation and thermal retention, the building incorporates green roofs and partial green floors, providing excellent insulation for the interior spaces, absorbing carbon dioxide, reducing rainwater runoff, and increasing biodiversity. The polycarbonate panels effectively block the intense ultraviolet rays common in southern regions, are durable for long-term use, and have excellent thermal performance for effective insulation and warmth retention.
In building components, the residential units feature large sliding windows on the balconies, which can be fully opened during the summer to transform the interior into an open semi-outdoor space, enhancing natural ventilation and connecting with the surrounding environment. In winter, these can be completely closed, turning the balcony into an enclosed part of the interior and promoting cross-seasonal natural ventilation, thereby reducing reliance on air conditioning.
Functionality and comfort were highlighted as important criteria. How did you ensure that your design provided a functional layout, ample storage, and comfortable living areas while still prioritizing biophilic principles?
In terms of functionality and comfort, we adopt a separate approach, that is, the parts that meet the basic functional needs of the elderly are assembled in a personalized house that can be freely adjusted, so that the functional space is satisfied in the most efficient way. Comfort considerations are mainly reflected in each large floor, we set up four theme floor space, combined with the biophile way to give the elderly the greatest comfort and satisfaction.
Considering the urban context, what challenges did you face in integrating nature-inspired elements into an urban environment, and how did you overcome them?
The site of the design is located in the urban village of Guangzhou. With the process of urbanization, the available land in Guangzhou is becoming less and less, which is difficult to meet the needs of people's normal life. Meanwhile, the backward infrastructure and poor ecological environment of the urban village are not friendly to the elderly living here. Therefore, the design first makes efficient use of urban land through vertical spatial arrangement. At the same time, vertical greening arrangement is carried out in the periphery of the building, which can not only regulate the environment of the building itself, but also play a role in regulating the microclimate of the entire urban village.
Aesthetics played a significant role in this competition. How did you strike a balance between modern design aesthetics and the organic qualities of biophilic elements in your design?
We believe that modern design aesthetics can assist biophile elements to intervene in the design in a more natural way, for example, when considering the combination of natural light and shadow with the building, we use translucent membrane materials placed behind the plants. When the sun shines on the plant, the shadow of the plant will be projected on the membrane material, and a small number of light beams will penetrate the membrane into the room, forming a modern design aesthetics and reflecting the biophile.
Reflecting on the competition experience, what were the most rewarding aspects of participating in Yearning to Breathe 2023, and how do you think this competition has influenced your approach to architecture and design?
We believe that the greatest value of the theme of this competition is that it awakens the public, including the participants and the audience, to the value of humanized living space, and the competition itself shows the public and the participants a variety of human-based design theories and methods; Such meaningful competitions not only make us understand more relevant theoretical knowledge, but also make us think more fully about the possibility of pro-biological design when designing.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the impact of biophilic design on urban living, and what role do you see architects and designers playing in promoting this approach to sustainable and harmonious urban development?
The future urban life is destined to be more sustainable and harmonious green life. The biophilic design provides a design idea that can be continuously updated for the architectural design that is more in line with sustainable and harmonious development. Under the condition that this idea can become a consensus, every part of the city can maximize the comfortable space for people. Cities are havens created by human beings, and architects and designers are their ghostwriters. Urban design is not only the materialization of materials, but also the shaping of life colors, that is, architectural design and designers participate in the design of people's lives
Third Prize Winners
Daniela Mederos, Megan Rodriguez
U.S.
Daniela Mederos:
Daniela Mederos, born in Santiago, Chile to Cuban parents, relocated to Miami, Florida at the age of 12. Currently a graduate student at Florida International University, she is pursuing her master's degree in Architecture. Her passion lies in the creative process of architecture and its ability to positively impact people's interaction with the physical world. Post-graduation, she aspires to design spaces that promote connections between people and their environment, focusing on enhancing the psychological well-being of occupants.
Megan Rodriguez:
Megan Rodriguez, originally from Miami, Florida, is currently completing her Master's degree in Architecture at Florida International University. Driven by a passion for creative design, her goal is to design spaces that foster a harmonious relationship between people and their environment. Through innovative and sustainable design, she aims to positively impact lives and communities, bridging the gap between individuals and their surroundings.
Could you share your initial inspiration behind your design concept for this competition?
The initial inspiration behind our design concept for this competition stemmed from the remarkable symbiotic relationship between fungi and their surrounding environment. By observing the adaptive features of fungi morphology and functionality, we sought to emulate this relationship within residential living spaces. Our goal was to create a design that seamlessly integrated with the natural landscape while offering sustainable, comfortable living conditions for occupants.
Biophilic integration was a central theme of this competition. How did you approach incorporating biophilic elements into your design to enhance the well-being and comfort of the residents?
Biophilic integration was central to our approach in enhancing the well-being and comfort of residents. We meticulously incorporated elements such as natural light, organic shapes, and native landscaping to create a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Circular windows and a courtyard inspired by fungi growth patterns fostered a sense of being immersed in nature, promoting mental health and overall satisfaction with the living space.
Sustainability was a key aspect of the competition objectives. Can you elaborate on the eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and water conservation strategies you implemented in your design?
Sustainability was a key focus of our design, reflected in our choice of eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and water conservation strategies. When it comes to materiality, for the main body of our project we incorporated panels inoculated with mycelium to allow the underground portion to integrate into the existing forest mycelial network. For energy systems, the partial underground design leveraged the insulating properties of soil, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Additionally, the soft robotic inflatable system provided passive climate control, further minimizing energy consumption. We addressed water conservation strategies by incorporating Native plant species in the courtyard, which minimizes the need for artificial irrigation and supports local ecosystems.
Functionality and comfort were highlighted as important criteria. How did you ensure that your design provided a functional layout, ample storage, and comfortable living areas while prioritizing biophilic principles?
Each space was designed with both practicality and aesthetics in mind, offering ample storage options and comfortable living environments infused with natural elements. The form of our project created rounded interior spaces so we were mindful of acomating the size of living spaces to that specific condition. We also design custom furniture and railings to fit the interior contours of the project. Furthermore, we paid particular attention to the circulation areas. We incorporated mycelium-like structures to envelop the corridors to facilitate a seamless movement throughout the home while reinforcing the connection to nature.
Considering the urban context, what challenges did you face in integrating nature-inspired elements into an urban environment, and how did you overcome them?
Integrating nature-inspired elements into an urban environment presented challenges such as space limitations and existing infrastructure constraints. We overcame these challenges by creatively adapting our design to fit within the urban context while still preserving the essence of biophilic principles. Our chosen location was surrounded by single-family homes so we reimagined the “traditional” single-family home incorporating fungi morphology and functionality. Additionally, we incorporated green spaces, native vegetation, and organic forms which help mitigate the urban setting's impact, creating a sanctuary of natural tranquility within the cityscape.
Aesthetics played a significant role in this competition. How did you strike a balance between modern design aesthetics and the organic qualities of biophilic elements in your design?
Striking a balance between modern design aesthetics and the organic qualities of biophilic elements was achieved through careful attention to detail and thoughtful integration. We employed contemporary materials and construction techniques while incorporating organic shapes, textures, and colors inspired by nature. This synthesis created a visually appealing and cohesive design that harmonized with both urban and natural environments.
Reflecting on the competition experience, what were the most rewarding aspects of participating in Yearning to Breathe 2023, and how do you think this competition has influenced your approach to architecture and design?
The most rewarding aspect of participating in Yearning to Breathe 2023 was the opportunity to explore innovative approaches to architecture and design that prioritizes sustainability and well-being. This competition has influenced our approach by reaffirming the importance of biophilic design principles in creating spaces that not only function efficiently but also nurture the human spirit and foster environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the impact of biophilic design on urban living, and what role do you see architects and designers playing in promoting this approach to sustainable and harmonious urban development?
Looking ahead, we envision biophilic design playing a crucial role in shaping the future of urban living by promoting sustainable, harmonious environments that prioritize human health and well-being. Architects and designers have a responsibility to advocate for and implement biophilic principles in urban development, integrating nature into the built environment to enhance the quality of life and mitigate the negative impacts of urbanization on both people and the planet. Through continued innovation and collaboration, we can create cities that are not only resilient and sustainable but also vibrant, livable spaces that reconnect inhabitants with the natural world.
Special mention
Jack Pearce & Ecem Aksoy
U.S.
Jack Pearce and Ecem Aksoy are fourth-year Master of Architecture students at Florida International University. They share a passion for creative, sustainable, and nature-inspired architecture. Their project, Haven by the Sea, draws inspiration from the natural contours of canyons and the diverse array of shells found along the shoreline. Their shared experiences exploring different countries and design methods have reinforced their similar design language and ability to collaborate effectively.
Honorable mention
Hanshu Jia
Xinwang Chen
Chunlei Wang & Zhitong Ma
Alfin Fakhrieza Maulana, Remita Benny Zenobia and Rifqi Haikal
Amalia Garcia, Andre Castaneda
Hanshu Jia
China
" Hanshu Jia is a student who learnt the spatial design and architecture in the Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. His works explore the manifestation of biomaterials in space and architecture, reflecting the material lifecycle system and sustainability of architecture. It strives towards the symbiosis between human and non-human, ecology and building environments."
Xinwang Chen
China
Chunlei Wang & Zhitong Ma
China
Ma Zhitong is currently studying architecture at Hebei University of Technology in Tianjin, China.
Chunlei Wang is currently studying architecture at Hebei University of Technology in Tianjin, China.
Alfin Fakhrieza Maulana, Remita Benny Zenobia and Rifqi Haikal
Indonesia
ALFIN FAKHRIEZA MAULANA
A student of architecture, Institut Teknologi of Sumatera, specializing in sustainable architecture. Recognizing the architect's involvement in social issues, he emphasizes the importance of careful consideration, critical thinking, and meticulous planning in seeking architectural solutions to these social challenges. He is confident that the positive impact of implementing sustainable concepts can maintain a balance between human life, the surrounding environment, and local culture.
MUHAMMAD RIFQI HAIKAL
He has vision in life for being a campaigner. He’s an enthusiastic, highly motivated and also creative person. In characteristic of his architectural design, he is interested in social issues and sustainable approaches to be applied in simple functional designs with a local touch. All of this is because of his belief in connecting between humans, nature and the cultural values.
REMITA BENNY ZENOBIA
At Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Remita Benny Zenobia is delving into her academic pursuits, driven by a keen interest in exploring the complexities of social issues within a community, sustainable design, cultural preservation, and the impacts of sensory stimulation from an architectural perspective
Amalia Garcia, Andre Castaneda
U.S.
