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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Enhance Urban Micro-Living Solutions

Author:
Lilian Buchangroff
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Enhance Urban Micro-Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and transparent glass facades, this micro-living solution redefines urban density by offering efficient and adaptable housing units designed for community-oriented living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on rooftops and vacant lots, the project maximizes urban density.
02
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic contrast.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
04
Flexible modular units allow for varied configurations to meet different residency needs.
05
A community-focused layout promotes social interaction through shared public spaces.
MyCr[o] Living is an architectural project focused on addressing housing shortages in urban environments, specifically New York City. This design seeks to optimize underutilized spaces by proposing micro-apartment modules that can be placed atop empty lots or on rooftops of existing structures. The project aims to provide affordable living solutions while fostering a sense of community among residents.

Micro-apartment modules are designed to be compact, with an area of approximately 120 square feet, accommodating essential living functions like sleeping, cooking, and bathing. This approach provides flexibility for a diverse demographic, particularly targeting millennials and young professionals who seek efficient, economical housing options. The use of modular design allows for configurations that can adapt to the various conditions of urban sites.

Innovative Spatial Configuration
A notable aspect of MyCr[o] Living is its modular principle, which enables the assembly of living units in various arrangements. This flexibility is crucial when dealing with the constraints of urban settings. The design incorporates private and communal areas, facilitating both personal privacy and community interaction. Essential functions, such as kitchen and bathroom facilities, are integrated into each module, promoting a self-sufficient living experience within a reduced footprint.

Community-focused Design
The project emphasizes community engagement by incorporating public spaces at the ground level of the modules. These areas serve as social hubs, offering opportunities for interaction and connection among residents. The architectural design encourages mixed-use environments, integrating cafes and co-working spaces, thus enhancing the livability of the surrounding neighborhood. This integration of public and private spaces distinguishes MyCr[o] Living from typical residential developments that often prioritize individual units over community experience.

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural strategies and component integration, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented in the project documentation. These resources provide valuable insights into the design's functional efficacy and aesthetic considerations.
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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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