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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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