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Affordable housing solution utilizing recycled shipping containers and sustainable materials in urban settings

Authors:
Edric Choo Poo Liang, Queenie Wong Quin Ee Lee Chaer Shean
Affordable housing solution utilizing recycled shipping containers and sustainable materials in urban settings

Project in-detail

This architectural endeavor transforms urban living by seamlessly integrating recycled shipping containers with communal spaces and sustainable features, fostering a vibrant community in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project uniquely incorporates recycled shipping containers as the primary structural element, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and waste reduction.
02
Communal spaces are integrated directly into the vertical circulation routes, promoting spontaneous social interaction among residents.
03
Rooftop gardens serve not only as green spaces but also as urban farming areas, allowing residents to grow their own food while fostering community engagement.
04
Adjustable living spaces feature transformable furniture, enabling flexibility and efficiency to accommodate varying household needs and activities.
05
The design emphasizes mixed-use functionality, combining residential units with commercial areas that residents can operate, creating an economically viable community ecosystem.
The project, known as "The House of 360 Tenants," is an architectural design initiative aimed at addressing the challenges of affordable housing in Hong Kong. Characterized by its innovative use of brownfield sites, the project acknowledges the pressing need for adaptable living solutions in densely populated urban environments. This architectural endeavor is not just about creating shelter but about fostering community and enhancing social interaction among residents.

Central to the design ethos of "The House of 360 Tenants" is the integration of residential spaces with communal areas. The layout encourages social interaction by placing staircases, which are often underutilized in traditional apartment designs, at the heart of community life. This strategic placement transforms these circulation pathways into vibrant social connectors, offering opportunities for residents to engage with one another outside the privacy of their units.

The residential units are designed with efficiency in mind, incorporating different sizes and configurations to meet the diverse needs of occupants. Options range from compact units of approximately 6.83 square meters to more spacious configurations of 21.47 square meters. This flexibility allows for varied household types, thereby accommodating small families and singles alike. Each unit is thoughtfully designed to maximize functionality, utilizing transformable furniture that can adapt to changing needs and activities.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this architectural project. The use of upcycled materials, particularly recycled shipping containers, reflects a commitment to sustainability. By repurposing existing materials, the project not only minimizes waste but also embodies a mindful approach to resource consumption. Complementing these containers, additional materials such as concrete, steel, glass, and wood are employed throughout the design, providing structural integrity while creating a warm and inviting living environment.

Architectural details such as large windows and open-plan spaces enhance natural light and ventilation, promoting a healthier indoor atmosphere. The project emphasizes communal living through shared amenities, including rooftop gardens, shared dining areas, and recreational spaces that encourage residents to connect and co-create. These communal elements reinforce the project’s objective of fostering a sense of belonging and ensuring that living in close quarters does not equate to a loss of community.

The design also takes a forward-thinking approach to urban agriculture, with rooftop farms integrated into the architectural fabric. These green spaces not only provide fresh produce but also offer residents a unique opportunity for interaction with nature, fostering well-being and environmental stewardship among the inhabitants.

Unique design strategies are evident throughout the project. For instance, the versatility of the shared spaces is designed to accommodate various functions, ranging from communal gatherings to personal events. This adaptability reflects a growing understanding of the need for spaces that can adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of urban life.

In summary, "The House of 360 Tenants" embodies a thoughtful response to the complex issues of urban living in Hong Kong. The project's emphasis on community-building and sustainability represents a shift in architectural thinking, prioritizing human connections within the urban fabric. For those interested in exploring architectural plans, sections, and the various design elements that contribute to this project, further details are available for review. Engaging with these insights can deepen your understanding of the innovative approaches employed in tackling modern housing challenges.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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