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Charred Wood and Glass Living Spaces Under an Urban Overpass

Authors:
Amir Teyouri, Shamim Khosravi, Mateusz Bledowski
Charred Wood and Glass Living Spaces Under an Urban Overpass

Project in-detail

Combining charred wood aesthetics with expansive glass façades, this innovative living space transforms an underutilized bridge into a micro-housing solution that fosters community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates expansive glass façades to create a seamless connection with the natural environment.
03
Repurposes existing bridge infrastructure for innovative micro-housing solutions.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
05
Promotes community engagement through shared outdoor spaces beneath the bridge.
The architectural project "Under the Bridge" represents a thoughtful exploration of how existing infrastructure can be transformed into functional living spaces, merging urban development with natural surroundings. This design seeks to capitalize on the untapped potential of a bridge by reimagining it as a habitat rather than merely a thoroughfare. In doing so, it challenges conventional notions of both architecture and urban living, inviting inhabitants to experience life through a new lens shaped by sustainability and community engagement.

The project functions as a collection of micro-units strategically integrated beneath the bridge structure. Each unit is designed to be self-sufficient, catering to contemporary lifestyles while maximizing efficiency. This innovative approach promotes not only practical living spaces but also offers a unique architectural statement. By utilizing previously underappreciated areas of infrastructure, the project revitalizes the location and contributes to the community's aesthetic and social landscape.

Key elements of the design include the significant use of materials such as steel, glass, concrete, and wood. Steel provides structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight profile. Glass walls foster an openness that connects residents to both their homes and the surrounding environment, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. Concrete serves as a robust foundation, ensuring durability, whereas wood adds warmth, enhancing the overall comfort of the living spaces. The interplay of these materials creates a balanced environment that harmonizes with the natural elements surrounding the bridge.

The arrangement of units under the bridge reveals a nuanced understanding of spatial organization. Each micro-unit is oriented to maximize views and natural light, enabling residents to engage with their environment meaningfully. This thoughtful layout not only promotes a sense of privacy but also fosters community through shared common areas that encourage social interactions among inhabitants.

What makes this architectural project particularly noteworthy is its focus on sustainability. By transforming an existing structure rather than constructing anew, “Under the Bridge” minimizes ecological impact and promotes sustainable living practices. The project emphasizes adaptability, demonstrating a commitment to flexible design that can accommodate changing lifestyles and diverse needs over time.

Further enhancing the project’s uniqueness are its interdisciplinary design approaches, which incorporate insights from engineering, ecology, and community planning. This collaborative effort results in an architecture that not only serves its inhabitants but also enhances the local context by creating pathways for pedestrian movement and enhancing the visual landscape.

As you delve deeper into the project presentation, it becomes clear that "Under the Bridge" is not just about aesthetics; it is a pragmatic response to modern urban housing challenges. To fully appreciate the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that brought this project to life, exploring the detailed aspects of the design will provide valuable insights into its thoughtful execution and overarching vision. Consider taking the time to review the presentation for a comprehensive understanding of this innovative architectural project.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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