Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Timber Fused With Concrete for Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Andreea Cristina Baciu, Ioana Lascu, Alexia Denisa Ion, Ana Carina Sandescu
Charred Timber Fused With Concrete for Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

With a foundation of charred timber combined with a concrete frame, this adaptable urban development offers modular living spaces designed for community interaction and sustainability in the heart of Milan.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy reconfiguration based on resident needs.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance.
03
A concrete frame supports the vertical arrangement of living spaces.
04
Incorporation of green roofs promotes biodiversity and energy efficiency.
05
Community spaces are integrated at ground level to encourage social interaction.

### Overview

The architectural design for affordable flexible living in Milan responds to the city's urban challenges, particularly those arising from rapid development. This initiative aims to provide quality housing solutions that integrate high-density living with flexibility and adaptability. Positioned within a complex urban context that merges historical architecture with modern demands, the project proposes a new typology of modular living spaces tailored for diverse family structures and lifestyles.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout

The project is characterized by a series of stacked modular units designed to accommodate various living configurations while fostering connections among residents and the urban environment. The ground floor plan prioritizes accessibility and social interaction, featuring communal gardens and parks. The strategic arrangement of modules facilitates transitions between private and public areas. The first and second floors utilize a modular grid system, which not only supports flexibility in unit configuration but also ensures structural integrity through a durable concrete frame. Thoughtful proportions within each module maximize natural light and ventilation.

### Materiality and Community Interaction

Materials chosen for the project harmonize contemporary construction techniques with sustainability. A concrete frame serves as the backbone for the modular units, promoting durability, while lightweight walls allow for efficient reconfiguration of internal spaces. The use of glass balustrades enhances visibility and encourages outdoor interaction, while integrated landscaping elements bring a touch of nature to urban living. The emphasis on these materials results in a dynamic visual identity for the development.

The project’s commitment to flexibility is reflected in its design, allowing residents to modify their living spaces in response to changing family dynamics. Additionally, the inclusion of communal spaces—such as shared gardens and playgrounds—addresses the need for social interaction, promoting a sense of community amid the often-isolated nature of urban life. These aspects are critical in creating a holistic living experience in Milan's evolving urban landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy