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Bamboo Modular Housing with Integrated Community Spaces in Urban Settings

Authors:
Marco Cheung, Jorge Saavedra
Bamboo Modular Housing with Integrated Community Spaces in Urban Settings

Project in-detail

Constructed using bamboo and a modular layout, the design incorporates communal spaces that enhance social connectivity while addressing urban housing needs in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated bamboo for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Features modular units that can be reconfigured based on resident needs.
03
Incorporates integrated water management systems within the design.
04
Includes communal gardens to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Adopts a staggered elevator core to enhance vertical circulation and accessibility.

### Overview

The Hong Kong Pixel Homes project addresses the significant challenge of affordable housing in a densely populated urban environment. Strategically located in the neighborhoods of Kwai Tsing, Wong Tai Sin, and Kwun Tong, the development aims to provide responsive living solutions for a diverse demographic, including young adults, families, and seniors. By incorporating principles of flexibility, sustainability, and communal living, the project aspires to create a dynamic urban habitat that enhances community engagement while addressing the urgent need for innovative housing alternatives.

### Materiality and Structural Approach

The design emphasizes the use of sustainable materials, particularly bamboo, which plays a critical role in the structural framework. Glue laminated bamboo columns and cross laminated bamboo panels provide both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity, enabling larger spans and versatile internal configurations. Complementary concrete elements support vertical loads, while bitumen coatings enhance the building's durability through effective waterproofing.

A staggered elevator core facilitates access to shared spaces without disrupting vertical circulation, promoting interaction among residents. Additionally, the inclusion of natural structural systems streamlines air conditioning and water management, contributing to improved air quality within living units.

### Community-Centric Organization

The project prioritizes the creation of integrated common spaces that cater to a variety of user needs. These areas not only support recreational activities and communal gatherings but also house essential amenities, including restaurants, fitness centers, and art studios, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

To address the specific requirements of different age demographics, the design features tailored dwelling units: compact units for seniors, independent living arrangements for young adults, and family accommodations equipped with private dining areas. This demographic responsiveness, combined with the modular nature of the living spaces, allows for reconfiguration as residents' needs evolve, ensuring long-term sustainability and flexibility in urban living.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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