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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Bosco Jun Yin Ho, Michelle Ho, Ryan Wai Yin Tung
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles with modular architecture, this micro-living solution enhances urban density while offering adaptable housing options for diverse residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Modular units allow for seamless reconfiguration to adapt to changing resident needs.
03
Rooftop gardens promote community interaction while improving urban biodiversity.
04
Open floor plans maximize natural light and provide versatile living spaces.
05
The project utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
The Pixel Home project is a thoughtful architectural concept designed to address the pressing issue of housing in densely populated urban areas, specifically in Hong Kong. This design represents a response to the challenges of space constraints and the increasing need for adaptable living environments in nurturing sustainable communities. The project aims to create micro-living solutions that are not only functional but also responsive to the dynamic needs of residents.

The architecture of Pixel Home introduces a modular system allowing for a variety of housing types based on a standard grid format. This innovative approach facilitates different configurations depending on household size and user preferences. The narrow prototype measuring 5.6m x 6.4m serves individuals or smaller families, while the wide prototype at 15m x 6.4m accommodates larger families with the intention of incorporating varying lifestyles. The square prototype, which is 10m x 10m, is designed to enhance community living by supporting multiple units sharing communal amenities.

One of the most significant aspects of the project is its focus on adaptability. The design acknowledges that resident needs change over time. This is accomplished through features such as expandable units that can be merged with adjacent spaces or modified through movable walls within the interiors. These flexible living arrangements cater to young professionals, growing families, and shared living situations, thereby promoting a richer communal experience.

Another noteworthy detail is the emphasis on integrating communal spaces into the architecture. Rooftop gardens and shared facilities encourage social interaction among residents and foster a sense of belonging within the community. This connection to outdoor spaces speaks to the importance of greenery in urban environments—an essential consideration in the context of increasing urbanization and environmental concerns.

The materiality of the Pixel Home project is both practical and aesthetic. The use of concrete provides structural integrity, while glass facades enhance natural light entry, bridging the indoor and outdoor environments. Steel is utilized in the framework of rooftops and balconies, fostering a sense of openness and modernity. Meanwhile, wood finishes are incorporated within the interior to create warmth, enhancing the overall residential experience.

The project is positioned to challenge traditional notions of urban living by prioritizing the quality of life within compact designs. Through its innovative modular approach, the architecture addresses not just the immediate housing needs but also the long-term adaptability of living environments in the face of urban demands.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural design, reviewing the associated architectural plans, sections, and various design ideas can provide valuable insights. Exploring these elements further allows for an appreciation of how design can effectively respond to contemporary housing challenges, inviting a broader discussion on the future of urban living. Visit the project presentation to discover more about its multifaceted design and functional attributes.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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