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Charred Wooden Shingles Meet Modular Pixelation in Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Antoni Kubiak, Karolina Karolak, Szymon Zajączkowski
Charred Wooden Shingles Meet Modular Pixelation in Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and designed with modular pixelation, this compact urban living solution adapts seamlessly to the vibrant life of Hong Kong, providing flexible housing options within a limited footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal while reducing fire risk.
02
Modular pixelation allows for flexible unit configurations and adaptability to diverse living needs.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their strength and environmental benefits, contributing to sustainability.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes vertical space, creating a unique silhouette within the urban landscape.
05
Integrated greenery on facades fosters biodiversity and enhances air quality in a dense metropolitan area.
The project represents a nuanced approach to addressing the housing challenges prevalent in Hong Kong, a city characterized by its dense population and high cost of living. This architectural design focuses on providing innovative housing solutions through a collection of modular units that can be adapted to meet varying needs and lifestyles. The design emphasizes flexibility, sustainability, and community integration, reflecting a thoughtful understanding of urban life in a rapidly evolving context.

Central to the project is the concept of modular "pixel" homes, which encapsulate a series of compact living units aligned to optimize space and functionality. Each unit serves multiple purposes, making efficient use of the limited square footage common in high-density urban areas. This approach is particularly relevant for Hong Kong, where the scarcity of land makes traditional residential layouts impractical.

The architecture of the project is characterized by its spatial organization, which allows for easy reconfiguration of living spaces. The interconnectivity among the units promotes a sense of community, encouraging interaction among residents while also allowing for private living areas. Access nodes, such as stairs and lifts, are strategically positioned to facilitate efficient movement throughout the structure, ensuring that both residents and visitors can navigate the space comfortably.

Materiality plays a vital role in the overall design, with a selection of modern, durable materials that enhance both aesthetic appeal and performance. Steel is utilized for its strength and lightweight properties, enabling vertical stacking of units without compromising structural integrity. Glass is incorporated to maximize natural light, offering residents a visual connection to the dynamic urban landscape outside. Concrete forms the core components of the building’s structure, providing longevity and stability, while wood accents are employed in interior finishes to create a warm, inviting atmosphere amidst the urban setting. Additionally, green facades are integrated to promote biodiversity and improve air quality, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals.

The unique design approach shines through in the architectural details. The pixelated layout symbolizes not only the physical structure but also the fragmented nature of city living, reflecting how urban spaces can be both independent and interrelated. The use of vibrant colors on the facades enhances the building's integration into the lively neighborhood, making it an attractive addition to the cityscape.

Furthermore, the interior layouts are meticulously crafted to enhance livability. Open plan designs allow for versatile use of space, accommodating various activities without the constraints of traditional room boundaries. This adaptability is particularly essential for urban dwellers who may require innovative solutions for their living arrangements.

This project exemplifies modern architectural ideas that cater to the evolving needs of a diverse population. By prioritizing modular design, sustainable practices, and community-focused spaces, it offers a compelling vision for the future of urban living in densely populated regions. The careful consideration of every detail and element of the project reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents while fostering a sense of connection and belonging in an often isolating urban environment.

To explore further, readers are encouraged to examine the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to gain a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches that make this project a significant contribution to contemporary architecture in urban settings like Hong Kong.
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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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