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Community-focused housing utilizing sustainable materials and transparent facades for urban integration

Authors:
Nadezda Vozzhaeva, Uliana Zhomnir, Fedor Shemyakin
Community-focused housing utilizing sustainable materials and transparent facades for urban integration

Project in-detail

This innovative housing project integrates flexible living spaces with transparent facades and eco-friendly materials, creating a vibrant urban environment that fosters community engagement while respecting Rome's historical context.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project employs cross-laminated timber panels, which enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
02
It features a bent A-frame design, allowing for unique spatial dynamics and optimal natural lighting throughout the interiors.
03
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing aesthetic appeal and improving weather resistance.
04
An interactive digital platform enables community members to participate in design decisions, fostering a sense of ownership and connection.
05
The layout incorporates flexible living units that can adapt to various communal and private needs, responding to the evolving dynamics of urban life.
The Roman Archi Alphabet project represents a thoughtful exploration of urban living in the historically rich context of Rome. This architectural endeavor seeks to address the pressing need for affordable housing while facilitating community engagement and interaction. By integrating contemporary design principles with the cultural legacy of the city, the project strives to create an innovative framework that accommodates various urban functions and attributes.

At its core, the project embodies a flexible approach to urban design, manifesting a series of housing types and public spaces that respond to the dynamics of the urban environment. The design emphasizes an overarching concept of a “collage,” where different elements of the city’s architectural heritage converge into a cohesive representation of modern living. It redefines the relationship between public and private realms, ensuring that communal areas are seamlessly integrated with individual living spaces. This is achieved through a meticulous cataloging of spaces that includes distinct typologies such as houses, public squares, courtyards, and mega quarters, each uniquely tailored to the needs of residents.

Key components of the project highlight its multifunctional purpose. The architectural designs prioritize natural light and ventilation, fostering healthier indoor environments for inhabitants. Numerous windows and private outdoor areas encourage a connection to the surrounding landscape, nurturing a sense of community while also providing private retreats within the bustling urban landscape. The individual housing units, described as “houses” or “quartets,” are intentionally designed to incorporate both intimate living settings and accessible communal amenities, supporting social interactions and collective gatherings.

The project also introduces unique design approaches that emphasize sustainability and versatility. For instance, the use of materials such as concrete, glass, metal accents, and textured plaster enriches the spatial aesthetics while ensuring that the structures are durable and functional. These materials not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance the visual appeal of the buildings, allowing them to blend harmoniously with the diverse architectural styles found throughout Rome.

Moreover, the concept of the Roman Archi Alphabet incorporates interactive elements. The digital platform **Romeanetwork** allows residents to participate in planning decisions, effectively democratizing the design process. This approach empowers individuals to voice their preferences, enhancing the communal aspect of the project. By using a voting mechanism, the residents can influence decisions on aesthetic and functional elements of their living environment, making the design responsive to community needs.

The architectural sections reveal a thoughtful consideration of how different spaces are organized and how they interact with one another. Each typology—whether it is the enclosed courtyards promoting privacy, the islands providing a retreat, or the bridges connecting various areas—serves specific functions while fostering a fluid connection within the urban fabric. The fluidity of architectural forms encourages movement and exploration, inviting residents to engage with their surroundings actively.

The Roman Archi Alphabet not only reflects a commitment to sustainable and affordable living but also emphasizes the importance of architectural identity in a historic city. By acknowledging the rich past of Rome and envisioning a future based on collaborative urban living, the project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to foster community and enhance the quality of life.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, exploring the project presentation offers a wealth of insights. Engaging with the detailed architectural ideas can provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project seeks to redefine urban connectivity while respecting the historical context of one of the world's most iconic cities.
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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
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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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