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Bamboo Framework and Modular Living Solutions for Urban Housing

Authors:
Sung Lim, Sonya Falkovskaia
Bamboo Framework and Modular Living Solutions for Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing a bamboo framework and modular design, the project offers flexible living solutions that enhance urban housing efficiency in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo for structural support and temporary scaffolding.
02
Features modular units that allow for site-specific customization.
03
Incorporates vertical circulation designed with specific angular adjustments.
04
Adapts seamlessly to diverse urban infrastructures.
05
Promotes sustainable living through resource-efficient materials.

The Housing-Ladder project addresses the need for affordable housing in Hong Kong, focusing on flexibility and adaptability in a densely populated area. The design concept revolves around creating a modular living solution. It aims to fit seamlessly into various urban contexts, offering a functional space that encourages interaction among residents.

Design Concept

Central to the project is the idea of versatility. The structure is designed to adjust to its surroundings, forming a harmonious relationship with the urban fabric. This adaptability enhances the overall usability of space. Residents can enjoy improved connectivity and social engagement within the building, reflecting the changing demands of city living.

Modularity and Prefabrication

The design emphasizes modular construction. Each living unit is prefabricated, which speeds up the building process and allows for customization. This approach enables the design to respond more effectively to specific site conditions. The result is a collective living environment that offers diverse configurations, catering to the varied needs of its occupants.

Materiality and Sustainability

A notable feature is the use of bamboo as the main structural element. This material serves both as temporary scaffolding and a core construction component. Using bamboo illustrates a sustainable approach, where a lightweight yet sturdy material supports the building's overall structure. This choice reflects a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while enhancing the aesthetic quality of the project.

Vertical Circulation

The design also includes an effective vertical circulation system defined by angles of 10°, 30°, and 45°. These specific adjustments aid movement within the living units, facilitating accessibility for all residents. The integration of these angles adds visual interest to the design and promotes a functional flow between different elements of the structure.

As the Housing-Ladder rises, its design reflects a thoughtful balance between form and function, showcasing the relationship between human habitation and urban environments.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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