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Affordable Prefabricated Housing Integrated with Green Public Spaces

Authors:
Aga Kuś, Michał Siupik, Darshik Parejiya
Affordable Prefabricated Housing Integrated with Green Public Spaces
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Relocating traffic underground allows for affordable prefabricated housing to flourish alongside interconnected green spaces, promoting community interaction in a dense urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Affordable housing utilizes prefabricated construction for efficiency.
02
Integrated underground traffic reduces noise and pollution above ground.
03
Staggered housing blocks create natural visual separation while enhancing interaction.
04
Ground-level vending spaces support local commerce within the residential areas.
05
Extensive green pathways promote pedestrian use and community engagement.

The NEXUS project in Berlin addresses the significant needs of a growing urban population while managing limited land available for housing. With more than half of the city's area dedicated to residential uses and over 15% to traffic, the project looks to reclaim underused areas for vibrant green spaces alongside affordable living options. The design concept prioritizes connectivity, linking housing with public spaces to enhance community interaction and improve environmental conditions.

Concept and Connectivity

The design focuses on creating links across the city, bridging different urban areas. Relocating traffic underground reduces noise and pollution, creating a more pleasant environment for pedestrians. This change frees up space on the surface, which can be used for walking paths and greenery.

Green Integration

Enhancing green spaces is a central aspect of the project. The design incorporates parks and pedestrian pathways that connect staggered housing blocks. These public spaces are inviting and promote social interaction among the community. They create a balance between natural surroundings and the built environment, making the urban setting more enjoyable.

Housing Typology

Housing in NEXUS is designed to be affordable and prefabricated, which helps meet the urgent demand for homes in Berlin. These buildings are adaptable to various site conditions, making them practical for the changing needs of the city. The layout encourages neighborly interactions while providing spaces for privacy.

Commercial Integration

Ground-level areas are intended for vending and commercial activities, supporting local business and providing essential services for residents. This arrangement makes amenities easily accessible and contributes to a lively urban atmosphere. The integration of shops and services within residential blocks creates a convenient living experience for those who call this area home.

The NEXUS project includes parks with winding pathways and gathering spaces, inviting residents to explore their surroundings. These elements foster a sense of community while offering a necessary retreat from the urban hustle.

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

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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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