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Charming Community Living Crafted from Brick and Steel with Serene Shared Courtyards

Author:
Octavio Altamirano
Charming Community Living Crafted from Brick and Steel with Serene Shared Courtyards

Project in-detail

Constructed from durable brick and steel, the design prioritizes communal courtyards while offering efficient vertical duplex living in a densely populated urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a focus on sustainability, the project uses locally sourced brick and steel materials.
02
Symmetrical stacked duplexes promote efficient land use while enhancing community interaction.
03
Shared courtyards replace traditional backyards, fostering social engagement among residents.
04
Dual spiral staircases ensure accessibility while connecting multiple living levels seamlessly.
05
The innovative design adapts to the urban context, maximizing light and airflow in each unit.
The architectural project "Caduceus" represents a modern approach to urban housing, emphasizing efficient land use through vertical duplex living. By integrating two residences per lot, each occupying 84 m², the design maximizes space in a densely populated environment while encouraging a sense of community among residents. The layout incorporates communal areas promoting interaction, which is increasingly important in contemporary urban design.

Key components of *Caduceus* include a series of symmetrical stacked duplex units, arranged to facilitate accessibility and interaction. Each unit features independent living areas while sharing central vertical access points, ensuring privacy and promoting neighborly relationships. The design includes dual spiral staircases to enhance movement throughout the structure, facilitating connections within the living spaces.

A distinctive feature of this project is its dedication to maximizing communal space without compromising the individuality of each unit. By eliminating traditional backyards and instead creating shared courtyards, *Caduceus* not only fosters community engagement but also optimizes land use. This focus on shared outdoor areas enhances social sustainability and encourages interactions among residents.

The material selection reinforces the architecture's objectives. Key materials such as brick, concrete, wood, and steel are strategically used to create a balance between durability and aesthetic appeal. Brick and concrete provide stability, while wood adds warmth and comfort to the interiors. Steel elements contribute to the modern essence of the design while supporting structural integrity.

For those interested in exploring the project further, it is beneficial to review the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the innovative concepts and unique approaches that characterize the *Caduceus* project. The integration of functionality and community orientation within a modern architectural framework makes this design noteworthy in today's urban landscape.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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