Garden Crescent integrates sustainability, biodiversity, health, and wellness through an “urban forest” design concept for this unique single residential tower.
Located in Ho Man Tin in Kowloon, Garden Crescent is designed to connect every resident with the natural world by “greening every view, every level, and every doorstep.” With over 50% green coverage, the tower has private green balconies, green terraces, courtyards, and a sky garden with over 36 plant species – 70% of which are local species.
The design turns individual sustainable elements into an integrated urban ecosystem through linked courtyards that are fully accessible to birds and insects. This fulfils another important aim of the project: to repopulate the biodiversity of the wider district. The building’s substantial greenery helps to filter air pollutants and reduce the urban heat island effect – both of which will further enhance the neighbourhood’s microclimate. The greenery also acts as a natural noise barrier, improving the quality of life and psychological comfort for residents.
Garden Crescent’s visual voids and breathing spaces in pedestrian zones also enhance its sustainability. By providing 30% void space over the whole building volume, the building simultaneously decreases compactness and reduces building bulk, while its generous setback increases permeability and air circulation. Additionally, around 25% of the development’s greenery is located in pedestrian zones, creating a lush physical and visual connection to nature.
The building’s outdoor podium staircases also create a dynamic, nature-based relationship with the communal spaces. These can only be discovered by walking, and only perceived when passing through them – creating paths that surprise and delight.
View Original