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Community Living Enhanced by Metal Panels and Brick Integration

Author:
Fjoreta Sulaj
Community Living Enhanced by Metal Panels and Brick Integration

Project in-detail

Incorporating a unique blend of metal panels and traditional brick, the design enhances urban living by creating a modular community that accommodates diverse resident needs within a vibrant Berlin neighborhood.
5 key facts about this project
01
Distinctive vertical lattice supports greenery and enhances light access.
02
Integrates traditional brick with modern metal panels for unique visual contrast.
03
Modular unit types accommodate a diverse range of household sizes.
04
Thoughtful spatial arrangement fosters community interaction while maintaining privacy.
05
Strategic unit separation allows for dynamic common areas and natural light infiltration.

The design located in Berlin focuses on integrating modular housing within a diverse urban context marked by a mix of historical buildings, modern architecture, and tall structures, all surrounded by green spaces. The concept aims to create a structure that reflects the feel of a small residential community. It addresses various needs of people, including students, singles, couples, and families. Through a modular approach, the design features four different types of units, ensuring flexibility and a range of living options.

Modular Typology

The layout consists of four unit types: A0 as a studio, A1 as a one-bedroom unit, A2 as a two-bedroom unit, and A3 as a three-bedroom unit. Each type is designed to accommodate different lifestyles. This modular design fosters interactions among residents while still providing privacy. It takes the form of a suburban townhouse, with height increasing based on the number of bedrooms, keeping the visual cohesion of the community in mind despite urban density.

Spatial Arrangement

A notable aspect of the design is the separation of some units from the main structure, creating unique common spaces and allowing natural light to fill the building's core. This arrangement encourages a sense of community, making it easier for residents to engage with one another while preserving personal space. By balancing shared and private areas, the plan promotes meaningful connections among the people living there.

Materiality

The materials selected for the building reinforce its connection to the city. Traditional elements like brick and stone are combined with modern metal panels, creating a conversation between the old and new architectural styles. The use of these materials enhances the visual richness of the façade while establishing a strong relationship with the surrounding environment. Each material not only serves a practical purpose but also contributes to the overall design coherence.

Visual Connectivity

Vertical circulation within the building is encapsulated by a grid-like lattice, which allows for greenery to thrive and provides residents with expansive views. This design choice enhances their living experience, blending indoor spaces with the outdoors and connecting them with nature. The lattice adds both beauty and function, underlining the role of green spaces in urban life and enhancing the overall experience of the building's residents.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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