Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Community Living Above Railways with Modular Decks

Authors:
Andrew Drummond, Federica Sedda, Tom Foggin
Community Living Above Railways with Modular Decks
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Leveraging the overground railway network, this development employs modular construction to create high-density co-living units that offer affordable housing solutions in a dense urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be easily reconfigured based on resident needs.
02
Utilizes existing railway infrastructure to minimize land use impact.
03
High-density living is designed to foster community interaction.
04
Construction methods focus on carbon-negative solutions.
05
Direct access to public transport enhances urban connectivity.

The design focuses on addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in London, utilizing the city's extensive overground railway network. With land prices reaching £93.3 million per hectare, the initiative proposes to create residential units that do not expand the city’s footprint. By taking advantage of over 1,100 kilometers of uncovered railway tracks, the aim is to build decks that could accommodate around 250,000 homes, responding to the significant demand for housing in urban areas.

Modular Approach

A modular housing system, referred to as ON BOARD, forms the foundation of the design. This system allows for customization and adaptability, enabling residents to adjust unit layouts according to their individual needs. High-density co-living units feature shared kitchens and communal spaces, promoting a supportive community environment. Such configurations encourage social interaction among residents and cultivate a sense of belonging.

Sustainability Considerations

The design places a strong emphasis on environmentally sustainable construction methods. Although specific materials are not mentioned, the focus is on carbon-negative solutions that reduce the environmental impact of buildings. Prioritizing low-impact materials aligns with current practices aimed at achieving energy efficiency and sustainability in urban settings.

Community Engagement

Creating spaces for communal activities is integral to the overall design. By incorporating shared areas, the layout encourages interactions among residents, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. This design philosophy combines private living and communal spaces, enriching the everyday experience of urban living.

The architectural plan culminates in a thoughtful arrangement that enhances accessibility and promotes connections among residents. Communal spaces are designed for gatherings and shared experiences, contributing to a vibrant community spirit within the urban context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy