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Co-housing Development Featuring Roman Brick and Galvanized Steel Solutions in an Urban Landscape

Authors:
Sara Mountford, Eric Anderson
Co-housing Development Featuring Roman Brick and Galvanized Steel Solutions in an Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Set in the heart of Rome, this co-housing development masterfully combines traditional Roman brick and contemporary galvanized steel to create adaptable living spaces that foster community while blending seamlessly with the urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project features integrated vertical gardens that not only enhance aesthetics but also support local biodiversity within the urban landscape.
02
Each residential unit includes modular design elements that allow for easy reconfiguration to meet the evolving needs of residents.
03
The use of traditional Roman brick in the façade pays homage to the historical context, blending seamlessly with the surrounding architecture.
04
A common rooftop terrace incorporates sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting and solar panels, to promote environmental stewardship among residents.
05
Shared communal spaces are designed with acoustical considerations, ensuring a comfortable environment for gatherings while minimizing noise disruptions.
The Elysian Co-Housing Project, located in Rome, exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary living within a historically rich urban environment. This architectural endeavor seeks to address the increasing demand for affordable housing while promoting a sense of community and environmental sustainability. The project integrates modern design principles with traditional Roman architectural elements, creating a harmonious blend that respects the city's cultural context.

At its core, the Elysian Co-Housing Project serves as a residential complex that provides a unique living arrangement for individuals and families. It offers private units designed for comfort and privacy while incorporating shared communal spaces that facilitate social interaction among residents. This dual focus on private and communal living not only supports diverse lifestyle needs but also fosters an atmosphere of collaboration and engagement, essential for modern urban living.

The architectural design emphasizes adaptability, with residences that can be customized to reflect the specific lifestyles of the inhabitants. This flexibility is an important aspect of the project, allowing for the accommodation of varying family sizes and demographic profiles. The layout is strategically organized around open courtyards that enhance natural light and ventilation, creating a warm and inviting environment within the densely populated city.

Key features of the Elysian Co-Housing Project include the innovative use of materials, which emphasizes sustainability and local relevance. The construction incorporates raw concrete for structural elements, complemented by traditional Roman bricks that provide a link to the region's architectural heritage. Elements such as galvanized steel mesh are utilized in facades, allowing light to filter through while ensuring security. Additionally, the use of chestnut wood in flooring and furniture introduces an organic quality, enriching the living experience.

The project showcases various communal amenities, including shared kitchens, lounges, and gardens that encourage residents to come together. These spaces are designed not only for functionality but also for fostering relationships among neighbors, which is a vital aspect of the co-housing concept. By providing environments conducive to social interaction, the project contributes to the well-being of its residents, making them feel part of a larger community.

Particular attention has been paid to the integration of green spaces within the design. The inclusion of vertical gardens and landscaped terraces serves multiple purposes: enhancing aesthetic appeal, improving air quality, and providing areas for relaxation and recreation. This focus on nature within the urban setting reflects a growing awareness of the importance of environmental sustainability in architecture.

The architectural plans and sections of the Elysian Co-Housing Project offer a comprehensive view of its innovative spatial arrangements and functional layouts. The design emphasizes a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for a fluid transition that enhances the living experience. Each unit is oriented to maximize views and natural light, contributing to energy efficiency and comfort.

For those interested in exploring the detailed aspects of this architectural project, reviewing the architectural designs and sections will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful strategies employed throughout the development. The Elysian Co-Housing Project stands as a model for future housing solutions in urban settings, exemplifying how thoughtful design can create vibrant communities while respecting the historical context in which they exist. Those intrigued by the architectural ideas surrounding this project are encouraged to delve deeper into its presentation to appreciate the full scope of its design and impact.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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