Partner Search NEB-2026-01-REGEN-03

VERTI-LIFE aims to develop and demonstrate a market-ready, scalable solution for transforming under-used vertical spaces above buildings and streets into multifunctional biophilic infrastructures that enhance inhabitant well-being while contributing to sustainable and affordable urban densification.

The project addresses the challenge of limiting urban sprawl by increasing the environmental and social performance of the existing built environment. It aligns with the New European Bauhaus by integrating sustainability, aesthetics and inclusion, and by placing human well-being at the centre of vertical regeneration strategies.

Coordinated by the Department of Architecture of the University of Palermo, the initiative builds on strong expertise in biophilic architecture, circular construction and urban regeneration. The core innovation consists of an Integrated Biophilic Vertical System combining vertical green façades, rooftop gardens and productive landscapes using modular and circular solutions. The system will be supported by an AI-based Supporting Decision System to optimise plant needs and resource consumption, and by a validated digital predictive model enabling simulation of replicability across different European climatic contexts.

A full-scale pilot will be implemented in Sicily, with rigorous impact assessment including LCA, LCC, S-LCA, energy performance monitoring, air quality analysis and well-being metrics.

Partners Sought

We are currently seeking strategic partners with complementary expertise, including:

·         Construction and retrofit SMEs with experience in façade and rooftop interventions

·         Developers of modular or multifunctional vertical structures

·         Urban greening and nature-based solution providers

·         Digital and AI partners specialised in environmental monitoring or digital twins

·         Housing organisations, particularly in social and affordable housing

·         Municipalities willing to support pilot replication

·         SSH research institutions specialised in well-being, governance and participatory processes