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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Farms Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Imhotep Blot, Andres Cordoba, Caleb Matheson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Farms Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical farms and charred wooden shingles, this urban development redefines community living by providing adaptable housing solutions that promote sustainability and integration for migrant populations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical farming into its structural design for local food production.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features modular housing units that adapt to changing family needs.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for self-sustaining water supply.
05
Connects with existing urban infrastructure through well-planned pathways.
The architectural design project "MIGRANTS" presents a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges faced by migrant populations in urban settings. This project aims to create an integrated micro-community that promotes social cohesion, sustainability, and economic opportunity. By blending essential living spaces with facilities for community engagement and resource access, "MIGRANTS" serves as a model for modern urban architecture focused on inclusivity.

The project emphasizes the importance of resilience within urban environments, constructing a framework where adaptability and community-oriented design are paramount. Key components include flexible housing units, shared public spaces, and systems for sustainable resource management, all designed to foster a supportive environment for diverse demographics.

Innovative Integrative Design Approaches

The architectural design sets itself apart through several unique approaches not commonly found in standard housing projects. First, the opportunity walks, pathways that connect the development to the wider urban landscape, enhance accessibility to vital resources, including markets, health services, and public transportation. This connectivity encourages integration while reducing isolation often experienced by migrant communities.

Vertical farming is another distinctive feature. The incorporation of these farms into the building design allows residents to engage in local food production. This not only promotes nutrition and self-sufficiency but also contributes to the overall greening of the urban fabric, reinforcing ecological responsibility.

Additionally, the design includes a mass water collection system, harnessing rainwater to create a self-sustaining water supply. This functionality addresses water scarcity and elevates the ecological credentials of the project.

Modular housing units demonstrate versatility, accommodating different family sizes and needs. This adaptive design ensures that living conditions can evolve alongside the residents' circumstances, supporting family growth and community stability.

Sustainable Materiality and Social Spaces

The project adopts an eco-conscious approach through its material selection and design ethos, utilizing wood, steel, glass, green facades, and modular panels. These materials not only ensure structural integrity but also create a warm, inviting environment. The use of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels and green roofs, positions the project within a sustainable framework, reducing its reliance on non-renewable resources.

Public spaces within the project are designed to facilitate interaction among residents. Open plazas, gardens, and shared facilities encourage community engagement and cultural exchange, essential for fostering a sense of belonging. These amenities serve as gathering points for social activities, embodying the project's commitment to inclusivity.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. The details contained within the architectural designs provide further insight into the innovative strategies employed to create an integrated urban solution for migrant communities.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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