Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

3D Printed Concrete Pods With Sky Gardens Built From Shipping Containers

Author:
Sidhant Seth
3D Printed Concrete Pods With Sky Gardens Built From Shipping Containers

Project in-detail

Innovatively crafted from 3D printed concrete and shipping containers, these adaptable living pods incorporate sky gardens to enhance community engagement while providing flexible housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using 3D printing technology to minimize waste and enhance efficiency.
02
Features adaptable modular units that can be easily reconfigured for changing needs.
03
Incorporates elevated sky gardens to promote biodiversity and communal gardening experiences.
04
Utilizes shipping containers as part of the structural framework to reduce construction time and costs.
05
Integrates energy-efficient systems for rainwater harvesting to support sustainable living practices.
The Evolving Pods architectural project is an innovative solution aimed at addressing the pressing issues of urban living in densely populated cities like San Francisco. This design embodies a vision of modular housing that emphasizes adaptability, sustainability, and community. By focusing on a flexible living environment, the project represents a shift towards accommodating diverse lifestyles and needs within urban communities.

At its core, the Evolving Pods project functions as a versatile housing solution, offering various unit types that cater to individuals, families, and multi-generational households. This flexibility allows residents to modify their living spaces over time by expanding or merging units as their requirements change. Such an approach not only provides a practical solution to urban housing shortages but also fosters a sense of belonging among residents, encouraging interaction and cooperation within the community.

The architectural design incorporates multiple significant elements, acting in harmony to create an engaging living environment. Each pod is thoughtfully designed to integrate with its surroundings, making use of local materials and advanced construction techniques. The use of 3D printed concrete allows for streamlined construction processes, reducing waste and resource consumption. Steel frames provide structural stability, while large glass facades invite natural light into the living spaces, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere. Wood accents in common areas add warmth and contribute to an inviting aesthetic, reflecting an awareness of human scale and comfort.

One of the remarkable features of the Evolving Pods design is its emphasis on communal spaces. This project includes shared amenities such as gardens, gathering spots, and even small retail outlets, enhancing the interactions among residents and promoting a communal lifestyle. The design thoughtfully integrates these spaces with living units, ensuring that the community aspect is a key part of the overall experience, enhancing social connections and collective activities.

The innovative design approach also explores the use of shipping containers as modular units. This strategy addresses both the urgent need for affordable housing and environmental concerns by utilizing readily available materials and minimizing construction waste. Moreover, the design incorporates sky gardens and green terraces, allowing residents to engage with nature and enjoy communal outdoor spaces. These gardens not only provide recreational opportunities but also enhance urban biodiversity and contribute to the mental well-being of the residents.

In terms of environmental sustainability, the project includes features such as energy-efficient designs and systems for rainwater harvesting. Each housing unit is equipped to minimize ecological footprints while encouraging residents to be conscious of their resource consumption. This aspect of the design highlights a growing trend in architecture that prioritizes sustainability by integrating ecological considerations into urban living.

The Evolving Pods project serves as a testament to modern architectural ideas that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. By incorporating flexible, communal, and sustainable design elements, it presents a forward-thinking model for urban housing. Individuals interested in the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design aspects should take the opportunity to explore the presentation of the project further. Reviewing these elements will provide deeper insights into the unique architectural approaches and the thoughtful design process that characterizes this innovative project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy