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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Vacant Bridges Into Affordable Housing

Authors:
Aga Kuś, Michał Siupik, Darshik Parejiya
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Vacant Bridges Into Affordable Housing

Project in-detail

Elevated by charred wooden shingles and enhanced with green roofs, the design reimagines vacant bridges as sustainable affordable housing units that foster community connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates green roofs to enhance biodiversity and provide thermal insulation.
03
Repurposes vacant hostel bridges, maximizing existing urban infrastructure.
04
Features modular housing units adaptable to varying family sizes and needs.
05
Integrates communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents.
The NEXUS project is an architectural endeavor situated in Berlin, dedicated to addressing the pressing housing needs within urban settings. The design emphasizes the repurposing of existing infrastructure, specifically vacant hostel bridges, to create efficient housing units that respond to the challenge of affordable living in a rapidly urbanizing environment. This project integrates residential space with community-oriented design, aiming to foster neighborhood connections and promote sustainable living practices.

Design Approach and Functionality

The NEXUS project stands out due to its innovative use of underutilized urban structures. By converting vacant bridges, the project not only provides residential units but also incorporates essential public spaces, pathways, and green areas. This multifunctional approach enhances connectivity, allowing residents to easily access amenities and public transportation. The design reflects an understanding of urban dynamics, prioritizing accessibility and interaction among residents. The project adopts a modular design, featuring various unit types that accommodate a range of family sizes, thereby ensuring versatility within the urban fabric.

Integration of Natural Elements

A significant aspect of the NEXUS project is its commitment to integrating landscaping within the architectural design. The incorporation of green roofs, private terraces, and communal gardens enhances the living environment, leading to improved air quality and biodiversity within the urban landscape. These features contribute to a sense of well-being among residents while promoting ecological benefits. The design also emphasizes the importance of natural light, with large windows and open spaces that create a connection to the outdoors, further enhancing the livability of the residential units.

The NEXUS project epitomizes a holistic approach to urban housing, merging architecture with community needs and environmental sustainability. Its focus on using existing infrastructure to create inclusive living spaces sets it apart from more conventional approaches to urban design. For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, consider exploring the project presentation further.
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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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