Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Integrate Affordable Living Under Urban Bridges

Authors:
Anqi Wang, Hao Zhou, Ruijing Sun, Yue Liang
Charred Wood Shingles and Concrete Integrate Affordable Living Under Urban Bridges

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and durable concrete, this design contributes affordable housing solutions beneath urban bridges, transforming overlooked spaces into vibrant community living environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design to optimize space and light within the units.
04
Includes communal green roofs that promote biodiversity and urban ecosystem integration.
05
Designed specifically to transform neglected underbridge spaces into livable communities.
Underbridge Homes is an architectural project situated in New York City, aimed at addressing the challenges of urban housing in underutilized spaces. The initiative focuses on converting areas found beneath urban bridges into functional living environments, providing affordable housing solutions while revitalizing often neglected locations. This project merges social utility with architectural and aesthetic considerations, showcasing an innovative approach to urban design.

The project consists of modular housing units that are adaptable to various family sizes, facilitating a diverse range of living arrangements. Residents benefit from communal spaces that foster interaction and belonging, enhancing community engagement. The layout includes central communal areas surrounded by housing units, ensuring accessibility and a sense of openness within the design.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the Underbridge Homes project. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, allowing for durability and flexibility in the design. Brick is utilized for the facades, offering visual texture and warmth. Glass elements in windows and community spaces promote connectivity with the outdoor environment and provide natural light to the interior. Additionally, wood features prominently in outdoor decks and interior finishes, contributing to a calming atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive aspects of Underbridge Homes is its innovative use of underbridge spaces for residential development. This approach recognizes the potential of previously overlooked areas, transforming them into livable communities. The project emphasizes natural ventilation through strategic window placements and orientation, thereby reducing dependence on artificial climate control methods.

Landscaping integrates with the architecture, featuring green roofs and terraces that help to mitigate the urban heat effect and encourage biodiversity. By including these elements, the design promotes not just individual living spaces but a cohesive ecosystem that enhances the quality of life for residents.

Architectural Plans and Details

In terms of architectural plans, the project showcases detailed layouts that effectively utilize vertical and horizontal space. The arrangement of modular units and the design of circulation paths illustrate a well-considered spatial organization. Architectural sections provide insight into how the buildings will interact with the surrounding infrastructure, emphasizing the relationship between the structures and their urban context.

For more in-depth information on this project, including architectural designs, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, it is recommended to explore the comprehensive project presentation that outlines all elements and concepts in detail.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
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 16,979 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