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3D-Printed Modular Housing with Hexagonal Shapes and Communal Green Spaces

Authors:
Ben Mc quaid, Na Na
3D-Printed Modular Housing with Hexagonal Shapes and Communal Green Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printing technology, the design integrates hexagonal modular units with communal green spaces to create adaptable housing that fosters community interaction in a dense urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular construction techniques for rapid assembly.
02
Incorporates communal green spaces for enhanced social interaction.
03
Designed with hexagonal forms to maximize spatial efficiency.
04
Features 3D-printed structural components for sustainability.
05
Allows for individual customization of living units.

The Roman Hive project is a modular housing design located in the heart of Rome, aimed at bridging the city’s rich history with the needs of modern living. It offers a variety of housing types, from high-density blocks to mixed-use towers and low-rise structures. The design emphasizes adaptability and encourages community interactions while providing private living spaces. This approach addresses the increasing demand for affordable housing in urban areas.

Community Focus

The project prioritizes communal living, allowing residents to connect with one another while still having their own private areas. The interconnected modules are created to foster social relationships, helping residents share experiences and resources. This balance between community and privacy makes the project suitable for a diverse range of individuals, from singles to families.

Efficient Use of Space

In designing the Roman Hive, a hexagonal geometric form was chosen for its ability to maximize available space in the densely populated urban environment. This efficient layout enables larger living areas without requiring a larger footprint. By focusing on spatial optimization, the design enhances the quality of life for residents, allowing them to enjoy both comfort and functionality.

Sustainable Principles

Sustainability plays an essential role within the design framework of the Roman Hive. The use of a 3D-printed structure adds durability and allows for changes in response to shifting urban needs. This method helps reduce waste and emphasizes the importance of working with the environment. It aims to create a long-lasting, responsible housing solution.

Social Interaction Space

The design incorporates various social spaces, including garden bars, garden theaters, and rooftop gardens. These communal areas serve as important gathering points for residents. They encourage participation in community activities and help cultivate a sense of belonging. By integrating these features, the design enhances the living experience and strengthens the connections among residents.

Inspired by natural forms, the project reflects an architectural language that draws from organic patterns, resembling honeycombs. This choice not only adds visual interest but also aligns with the sustainability goals of the design, making it appropriate for an urban context focused on both functionality and environmental respect.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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