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Colorful Netting and Modular Flooring Define Adaptive Urban Living Space

Authors:
Laura Blaszczak, Samantha Fruhwirth
Colorful Netting and Modular Flooring Define Adaptive Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Modular flooring and vibrant netting create a dynamic interplay within a compact urban habitat that fosters community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular flooring systems allow for flexible reconfiguration of living spaces.
02
Colorful netting serves as an aesthetic and functional element, enhancing light and transparency.
03
A dedicated water alter promotes sustainable practices through efficient plumbing design.
04
The integration of cut-slot and bristle components facilitates customization for residents.
05
Positioned within urban voids, the design encourages community interaction and engagement.
Urban U-Tilities represents a thoughtful integration of architecture with urban infrastructure. This project serves as a responsive living environment, prioritizing functionality while addressing the challenges associated with dense city living. Situated in the Lower East Side of New York City, this architectural endeavor reflects a commitment to adaptability and community engagement, creating a microcosm that promotes interaction among residents.

The primary function of Urban U-Tilities extends beyond mere habitation. It includes elements that foster a sense of community and enhance everyday living. Modular design principles allow spaces to be used in various capacities—serving as gathering areas, workspaces, and living quarters. The design promotes sustainable practices, making it not just a shelter, but a hub for human connection and environmental consciousness.

Innovative Design Approaches

Urban U-Tilities differentiates itself through its focus on integrating infrastructure into the living space. The project showcases how architectural design can harmoniously coexist with essential city services. Key components include a water alter designed for accessibility, emphasizing sustainable practices by utilizing hidden plumbing fixtures for efficient water use.

The structure's unique colorful netting serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, creating a visually engaging skin that invites light and encourages interaction while maintaining transparency. This layering creates not only a barrier but also a bridge between interior and exterior spaces, enriching the user experience.

Flexibility and Modularity in Architecture

The architecture of Urban U-Tilities exhibits an innovative approach to modularity, allowing for customization of living spaces. The inclusion of cut-slot disk and bristle components provides residents the ability to adapt their environments quickly to meet changing needs. This flexibility extends to the innovative flooring systems, permitting alterations in arrangement and function according to personal preferences.

The overall design fosters an organic relationship between the residents and the urban environment, challenging conventional notions of city living. Its orientation in the urban context optimally utilizes space while considering both aesthetic and functional implications, making it a useful model for future developments.

For a detailed exploration of the architectural plans, including sections and designs, visit the project presentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of Urban U-Tilities and its contributions to modern architecture.
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Enter an open architecture
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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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