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Bouldering Walls and Mechanical Rooftops Enhance Urban Living with Reinforced Concrete and Glass

Author:
Misa Sawairi
Bouldering Walls and Mechanical Rooftops Enhance Urban Living with Reinforced Concrete and Glass

Project in-detail

With bouldering walls integrated into a façade of reinforced concrete and expansive glass, the design transforms urban living by encouraging fitness and community engagement within an affordable housing framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bouldering walls are integrated into the building’s façade for active recreation.
02
The design employs large glass panels to enhance natural light and visibility.
03
Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity while allowing for creative forms.
04
Mechanical rooftops serve a dual purpose of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
05
Affordable housing units are designed to foster community interaction and wellbeing.
The "Fries House" is an architectural project located in New York City, designed to merge urban living with a focus on health and physical activity. The project addresses the increasing demand for affordable housing while integrating a unique recreational element: bouldering walls. This concept connects residential living with fitness, encouraging active lifestyles amongst its inhabitants.

The primary function of the Fries House is to serve as a residential complex, featuring multiple affordable housing units tailored for urban dwellers. The architectural design is characterized by a modular layout that maximizes space efficiency and allows for optimal natural light through extensive use of glass. The materials selected—reinforced concrete for structure, wood for flooring, and synthetic materials for climbing holds—reflect a thoughtful approach to durability, comfort, and engagement with the urban environment.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the project's distinctive features is the incorporation of bouldering walls on the exterior of the building. This design choice transforms the façades into interactive spaces, fostering community interaction and promoting a culture of fitness. Unlike traditional housing developments that prioritize passive living experiences, the Fries House actively encourages physical engagement through its architectural elements.

Furthermore, the roof design includes mechanical spaces that are not only functional but also contribute to the overall aesthetic of the structure. This attention to visual appeal enhances the relationship between the building and its urban context, making it a notable addition to the New York City skyline.

Community Engagement and Sustainability
The Fries House also emphasizes community by providing shared spaces designed for social interaction among residents. These areas complement the bouldering features, creating environments that promote both fitness and social cohesion. Moreover, the project considers sustainability through its material choices and building orientation, aiming for energy efficiency without compromising design quality.

The Fries House represents a forward-thinking approach to urban architecture, where the integration of fitness and lifestyle within a residential framework sets it apart from conventional housing projects. For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for deeper insights into its innovative concepts and execution.
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MICROHOME
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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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