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Automated Expansion With Steel Frameworks and Glass Facades for Affordable Urban Housing

Authors:
Tarek Radwan, Maroun Semaan
Automated Expansion With Steel Frameworks and Glass Facades for Affordable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing prefabricated modular units and a robust steel framework, this innovative housing solution redefines urban living by offering flexible, affordable spaces that adapt to the diverse needs of contemporary residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of automated expansion allows residents to customize their living space easily as needs change.
02
Modular units can be combined in various configurations to promote community interaction and privacy.
03
Energy-efficient insulated panels are employed throughout to enhance sustainability and reduce utility costs.
04
The project integrates communal areas that foster social connections while maintaining individual living spaces.
05
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for both aesthetic appeal and durability, ensuring longevity in the design.
The Expandable Housing project represents a thoughtful response to the pressing housing challenges faced in the urban environment of Las Vegas, Nevada. This architectural endeavor reflects the current socio-economic landscape, where rising costs and diverse population needs create a demand for versatile and accessible living spaces. By embracing a modular approach, the project seeks to provide adaptable housing solutions that can accommodate individuals, families, and professionals alike, resonating with the essence of community while respecting the uniqueness of each user.

At its core, the project embodies the principle of flexibility. It features a design that allows units to expand or contract based on the occupants' requirements. This ability to modify living spaces encourages a sense of ownership and adaptability. The architecture emphasizes modularity, with prefabricated units that can be assembled and disassembled with relative ease. This innovative aspect facilitates not only individual customization but also fosters community interaction by enabling a mixture of private and shared spaces.

Key components of the Expandable Housing project include a robust structural framework designed to support modular living units. The use of a structural grid enables future configurations and expansions without compromising the integrity of the design. This thoughtful planning approach encourages the exploration of various layouts, making it possible for individuals to personalize their living environments while integrating with neighboring units seamlessly.

The role of materials in this architectural project cannot be understated. Thoughtful material selection focuses on sustainability and durability, featuring elements such as steel frameworks for their strength and longevity, as well as insulated prefabricated panels that contribute to energy efficiency. The incorporation of glass facades enhances the project’s visual appeal while allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. This conscious approach to materiality not only supports environmental sustainability but also addresses aesthetic considerations, ensuring that the housing units align with the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas.

Another notable aspect of the design is the circulation patterns within and around the living spaces. The architecture encourages communal interaction through the arrangement of public and private areas, creating pathways that connect residents without compromising their personal space. This design philosophy responds to the needs of a diverse population and promotes a shared sense of community.

The Expandable Housing project signifies a shift in how urban architecture can address contemporary issues related to housing affordability and adaptability. By embracing innovative design approaches, it sets a precedent for future developments in urban areas facing similar challenges. The flexibility and responsiveness embedded within the project’s framework represent an important evolution in architectural practices, focusing on creating environments that are not only functional but also harmonious with the urban fabric.

The architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of this project provide a comprehensive illustration of how design can meet the evolving needs of urban living. It is imperative to explore further the architectural ideas and concepts represented in this project presentation, as it offers valuable insights into the future of housing solutions in dense urban settings. For those interested in understanding the relationship between architecture and community living, delving deeper into the Expandable Housing project will reveal a plethora of design innovations that align with modern-day demands.
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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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