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Community Living Enhanced By Modular Design Featuring Insulated Panels And Natural Material Integration

Authors:
Christian Casallas, Juan Antonio Ramírez Sáenz, Tomás Ramírez Sáenz, Hernan Gomez
Community Living Enhanced By Modular Design Featuring Insulated Panels And Natural Material Integration

Project in-detail

Modular housing units crafted from prefabricated insulated panels and local materials establish a sustainable living environment that fosters economic activity and community cohesion in Bogotá.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community spaces are integrated within the housing units to encourage social interaction and local commerce.
02
Prefabricated insulated panels reduce construction time and enhance thermal efficiency.
03
Recycled materials are prioritized to minimize environmental impact in the design.
04
The layout facilitates live-work environments, supporting entrepreneurial activities.
05
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings in the modular design.
The architectural design project focuses on reconfiguring tenement housing in Bogotá, Colombia, specifically in the La Candelaria neighborhood. This area, known for its rich history and cultural significance, has experienced significant population growth, leading to increased demand for affordable housing. The project aims to address this requirement by combining residential and commercial spaces in a modular design that promotes community interaction and economic sustainability.

The architecture comprises a modular assembly of housing units that facilitates flexible living arrangements. These units are designed to accommodate various family sizes and economic situations, thus addressing the diverse needs of the local population. Shared amenities, including communal kitchens, party rooms, and gardens, are integral to the layout, fostering social engagement among residents. By creating multi-functional living environments, the design enables adaptability, allowing spaces to shift according to users' needs.

The utilization of a careful material palette sets this project apart from conventional designs. The project incorporates concrete for structural components, ensuring durability, while prefabricated insulated panels, such as Kingspan Roof Panels, enhance energy efficiency. The inclusion of Solatube Tubular Skylights offers natural light, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting, and contributes to overall energy conservation. Metal roofing adds to the aesthetic appeal, while recycled materials are utilized where feasible, aligning the project with sustainability principles.

Design outcomes reflect unique approaches to community integration and environmental sustainability. The housing modules are clustered around shared spaces, encouraging interaction and commerce among residents. This layout mimics traditional market dynamics, allowing small business operations to flourish within residential frameworks, thus providing economic opportunities. Furthermore, the community garden highlights a commitment to sustainable practices, linking residents to organic food sources and promoting green living.

The architectural design represents an innovative solution to Bogotá's housing challenges while preserving cultural integrity. Its combination of functionality and aesthetic appeal, along with a responsive material strategy, enhances livability in urban settings. Readers interested in understanding the architectural plans and sections are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for comprehensive insights into the design and its implications for community development.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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