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Affordable Housing Featuring Prefabricated Modules and Sustainable Wood Finishes

Authors:
Rittipong Tiandum, Sasithorn Tiandum
Affordable Housing Featuring Prefabricated Modules and Sustainable Wood Finishes

Project in-detail

This affordable housing initiative seamlessly integrates prefabricated modules with sustainable wood finishes, creating a community-focused living environment that balances modern design with eco-friendly practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that enhance structural strength while reducing construction time.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Communal kitchens are designed to support cooking classes and culinary workshops, fostering skill development among residents.
04
Each residential unit features flexible layouts that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing family needs.
05
Integrated green roofs promote biodiversity and provide residents with accessible outdoor spaces for relaxation and recreation.
The architectural design project presented is a contemporary affordable housing initiative located in the Outer Mission neighborhood of San Francisco. This project emphasizes the essential need for affordable living spaces while addressing the complexities of urban life. It symbolizes a proactive approach to housing challenges by providing a unique blend of functionality, community, and sustainability.

The primary function of this project is to offer residents well-designed living environments that cater to low-income families. Each residential unit is tailored for efficiency while prioritizing comfort and accessibility. The layout promotes intimate yet communal living arrangements, enhancing social connections among residents. This thoughtful approach allows for a space where individuals can support one another while enjoying the benefits of shared facilities.

Significant components of the project include its modular construction, which enables rapid assembly and greater adaptability to changing community needs. This modular approach not only reduces setting time but also supports economic viability by keeping construction costs manageable. The architectural design incorporates lightweight steel frames that form the structural backbone of the building, ensuring durability and strength.

Additionally, the project utilizes wood panels extensively for interior spaces, contributing warmth and creating a welcoming ambiance. Generous use of glass allows natural light to permeate into the living areas, fostering an environment conducive to well-being. The integration of insulated wall panels further enhances energy efficiency, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices throughout the design process.

The layout of the project includes private units that provide necessary seclusion and comfort. These units are strategically positioned to allow for optimal views and ventilation, addressing the pragmatic needs of residents. Community spaces play a crucial role as well, with thoughtfully designed shared kitchens and gathering areas that encourage social interaction. This aspect of the project emphasizes the importance of community, serving as a hub for residents to connect and engage with one another.

Moreover, the incorporation of flexible modules allows residents the option to reconfigure their living spaces over time, accommodating various family sizes or dynamic living arrangements. This adaptability is a hallmark of modern architectural design, reflecting an understanding of the changing needs of urban residents.

Landscaping also plays a significant role in the overall design. The installation of green roofs contributes to urban biodiversity and offers residents access to outdoor recreational areas, further enhancing their quality of life. Common areas beautifully integrate with the natural surroundings, inviting residents to spend time outdoors, fostering a sense of connection to nature amid urban living.

This affordable housing project stands out due to its robust approach to social responsibility and environmental sustainability. By offering well-planned architectural solutions, it addresses the ongoing issues of housing insecurity while reinforcing community bonds. The design demonstrates responsible stewardship of resources and land, highlighting the importance of thoughtful urban living.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural intricacies and thoughtful design choices made throughout this project, we encourage an exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. By examining these elements, one can gain a better understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this innovative initiative.
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Enter an open architecture
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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
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