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Affordable housing solution featuring modular wood construction and expansive glass facades

Authors:
Wong Kai hong, Qiu Xin-lun
Affordable housing solution featuring modular wood construction and expansive glass facades

Project in-detail

This affordable housing project seamlessly integrates modular wooden construction with expansive glass facades, fostering community interaction while offering adaptable living spaces enriched by natural light and sustainable design principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
- Incorporates an innovative modular layout that allows for quick adaptation to changing resident needs.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles as a sustainable exterior finish, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
03
Features expansive glass facades that maximize natural light while promoting indoor-outdoor connectivity.
04
Emphasizes communal living with shared amenities designed to encourage neighborly interactions and collaboration.
05
Integrates eco-friendly green spaces within the residential layout, improving urban biodiversity and resident well-being.
The project under discussion represents a thoughtfully designed housing solution that balances functionality with a focus on community interaction. The architecture reflects a contemporary understanding of urban living, prioritizing the need for affordable yet high-quality living spaces in a densely populated area. This project is characterized by its linear arrangement of residential units, which fosters a sense of community while preserving individual privacy.

At its core, the design promotes connectivity among residents. By structuring the units in a linear fashion, the architect encourages social interaction, seamlessly blending private living areas with communal spaces. This approach enables residents to engage with each other more organically, creating opportunities for socialization. The layout includes a mixture of single and multi-bedroom units, catering to various family structures and living arrangements, thus ensuring functionality for a diverse demographic.

The project's function goes beyond mere housing; it is designed as a community hub. Essential shared amenities, such as communal kitchens, activity rooms, and laundry facilities, are integral components that enhance the overall residential experience. These spaces are strategically placed to be easily accessible, enabling residents to partake in communal activities while fostering a neighborhood atmosphere.

An important aspect of the design is its materiality. The use of a steel frame construction provides structural resiliency while allowing for a modular design. This enables flexibility in future adaptations, ensuring that the project can evolve with the residents' needs over time. Concrete is utilized for its durability and low maintenance, forming the visual and structural foundation of the building. Additionally, wood is incorporated in various interior and exterior elements, which lends warmth to the overall aesthetic. This deliberate material selection not only contributes to the building's longevity but also to creating an inviting and comfortable environment for the residents.

The integration of large glass windows also plays a crucial role in the design, promoting transparency and a connection to the outside environment. These windows serve to enhance natural light penetration, thereby creating inviting interiors that foster a sense of well-being among residents. The presence of green spaces, both within the residential units and around the common areas, further underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and community health. Such greenery not only improves air quality but also promotes relaxation and social engagement among residents.

Unique design approaches are evident in the careful attention to detail throughout the project. The circulation paths are designed with accessibility in mind, providing easy movement throughout the facility, which is particularly beneficial for families and individuals with mobility challenges. A deliberate focus on communal engagement is apparent in the extensive shared spaces that encourage residents to gather and interact.

The thoughtful architecture of this project reveals a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through innovative design. By prioritizing social spaces and accessibility, the design effectively addresses the needs of contemporary urban living, creating a balanced environment where individuals can thrive together.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts of this project, readers are encouraged to review the detailed presentation available, which provides insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this significant community-focused endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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