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Charred Facades and Concrete Framework Define Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Valentine Mutinda Kalei
Charred Facades and Concrete Framework Define Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Combining charred concrete facades with adaptable modular units, this development redefines urban living by prioritizing sustainability and community engagement through versatile housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy reconfiguration to accommodate varying family sizes.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced weather resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and sustainability.
04
The bent A-frame design enhances natural light penetration and ventilation.
05
Communal pathways integrate green spaces for improved resident interaction.

### Project Overview
The "ReForm: Adaptive Living" initiative, specifically focusing on "Block 92," is strategically located in Rinkar and addresses critical urban housing challenges through a modular design framework. The intent is to create adaptable living environments that promote sustainability and community interaction, thereby enhancing the urban landscape. This project employs innovative materials and construction techniques to respond to diverse community needs effectively.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The design centers on the use of modular housing components that allow for flexible living arrangements. Reinforced concrete panels form the core structural elements, integrating thermal insulation with an architectural solar facade. This arrangement supports various configurations, accommodating single residents in studio units, small families in one-bedroom apartments, and larger households in two-bedroom dwellings. The emphasis on adaptable space not only addresses housing shortages but also fosters a sense of belonging within the community.

Public spaces play a crucial role in the overall design, incorporating pathways, communal areas, and shared amenities that facilitate social interaction. These thoughtfully designed public realms encourage active community engagement, enhancing the residential experience and promoting wellness among residents.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials is essential to the project's sustainability goals. Locally sourced materials reduce the environmental impact, while energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and water management solutions like rainwater harvesting, further contribute to sustainable living. The facade incorporates a variety of materials and finishes, adding visual interest and responding dynamically to light. This careful approach to materiality ensures a visually engaging aesthetic while prioritizing durability and functionality.

Integrated landscaping features, including green spaces and utility zones, connect urban infrastructure with natural elements, thereby enriching the livability of the overall environment. This holistic design approach not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports ecological balance within the urban setting.

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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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