Introduction

Welcome to the "Yearning to Breathe 2025" design competition. This competition invites innovative minds to reimagine the urban home by embracing the principles of biophilic design. Biophilia emphasizes the human connection with nature, integrating natural elements, materials, and patterns into the built environment. Your challenge is to design a residential space that harmoniously integrates biophilic principles, providing a serene, restorative living experience within the complexities of an urban context.

Design Objectives

The primary objective is to craft an urban home that bridges the gap between urban living and nature, enhancing the residents’ physical and mental well-being while meeting functional and aesthetic needs. The design should focus on the following goals:

• Biophilic Integration: Incorporate natural light, greenery, water features, natural materials, and views of nature into the design. Enhance the well-being, comfort, and overall quality of life for the residents through these biophilic elements.

• Sustainability: Prioritize eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, water conservation strategies, and passive design techniques. Strive to minimize the environmental footprint by incorporating renewable energy sources and sustainable practices.

• Functionality and Comfort: Develop a layout that optimizes space usage, provides ample storage, and ensures comfort in daily living. Balance private areas, communal zones, and spaces for relaxation or creative activities to suit the needs of modern urban dwellers.

• Urban Context: Address the challenges and opportunities presented by the urban environment. Design with spatial efficiency, privacy, and innovative ways to integrate natural elements in mind while respecting the constraints of the site.

• Aesthetics: Blend modern design sensibilities with the organic warmth of biophilic elements. Create a visually appealing design that complements the surrounding urban fabric while celebrating the beauty of nature.

The Building Programme

The design should include the following components:

• Private Spaces: Comfortable and functional bedrooms that offer privacy and tranquility.

• Communal Areas: Open-plan living and dining spaces that foster interaction and connection.

• Nature Integration: Indoor and outdoor spaces featuring greenery, natural materials, or water elements.

• Utility Spaces: A functional kitchen, storage areas, and bathrooms designed with sustainability in mind.

• Multi-Purpose Areas: Flexible spaces that can adapt to hobbies, work, or relaxation.