Living in the downtown core of a city is great for convenience; however, the cluster, congestion and busyness can leave even the most enthused urbanites craving a little nature. As a result, architects, city planners and designers from around the world are reinterpreting the way that new housing developments incorporate Mother Nature. Case in point: Eden Bio by French architect Edouard Francois.

Located in Paris, the social housing development features residences and pedestrian corridors surrounded by trees and plants. Although much more could have been done to make the development eco-friendly, the concept is interesting nevertheless.

Imagine if the development included features like geothermal heating, water collection, rooftop gardens, community gardening programs, was made entirely out of recycled materials, and even used internal wall gardens for air filtration. It could be a truly sustainable living space.