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Corten Steel And Memory Foam Create A Sensory Living Experience In Urban Environment

Authors:
Damian Webster, Nicholas Gordon
Corten Steel And Memory Foam Create A Sensory Living Experience In Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Utilizing corten steel and memory foam, this living space forges a harmonious connection between tactile comfort and sensory engagement, creating a unique environment that balances communal interaction with personal retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
The exterior employs corten steel, which develops a unique patina over time, visually reflecting the natural environment.
02
Memory foam elements are integrated into private sleeping areas, enhancing comfort and adaptability for residents.
03
An interior vegetation garden is designed to improve air quality and create a biophilic connection within the living space.
04
The undulating architectural form allows for an innovative distribution of natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
05
Communal areas are strategically located to foster spontaneous interactions among residents, promoting a sense of community.
The project in question represents a notable exploration of contemporary architecture within the context of urban living, emphasizing the synthesis of communal and private spaces. Located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this architectural design emphasizes an active engagement with the sensory experiences of its inhabitants, thoughtfully designed to balance social interaction with personal retreat. This architecture fosters a living environment that invites both connection and solitude, catering to the complexities of modern life.

The primary function of the project is to serve as a communal living space that encourages interaction among residents while providing individual sanctuaries. Architectural elements have been meticulously crafted to enhance usability and comfort, making every area an integral part of the collective experience. The project is marked by its undulating form, which not only lends a distinctive visual quality to the exterior but also aids in creating dynamic internal environments. This shape serves to optimize natural light penetration and facilitates airflow, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Critical components of the project include thoughtfully designed communal areas, including social hubs that promote gatherings, discussions, and shared activities. These spaces are characterized by their warm materials and inviting aesthetics, which encourage social interaction among residents. The kitchens and living areas are seamlessly integrated, promoting functionality while creating a sense of togetherness. Additionally, private sleeping areas are equipped with memory foam elements, designed with comfort and well-being in mind, offering residents personal retreats that counterbalance the communal busy-ness of city life.

One of the most significant aspects of this architectural design is its materiality. The use of corten steel for the exterior not only reflects the industrial heritage of the surrounding neighborhood but also provides durability and weather resistance. This material develops a protective layer over time, setting a visual narrative that interacts with the environment. Internally, the choice of materials includes soft elements like memory foam, which enhances the tactile experience within personal spaces, and an interior vegetation garden that introduces natural surroundings into the living areas. The incorporation of greenery not only promotes biophilic design principles but also benefits the mental well-being of the residents through visual and olfactory engagement.

The spatial configuration within the project promotes fluidity and movement, with circulation areas designed to facilitate easy access to various zones—this encourages spontaneous interactions while maintaining a clear delineation between private and communal spaces. Corridors and garden areas serve as transitional zones that blend interior and exterior experiences, allowing for moments of reflection in landscaped settings.

The project stands out for its unique approach to balancing communal living and personal space within an urban environment. By prioritizing sensory experiences and the emotional impacts of design, the project responds to contemporary discussions around urban dwellings that cater to the diverse needs of today’s residents. It embodies an architectural philosophy that values not simply the physical structure but the lived experience it fosters, making it a thoughtful addition to the rich architectural tapestry of Williamsburg.

To gain a deeper understanding of how the architectural designs, plans, and sections harmonize within this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. By delving into these elements, one can appreciate the sophisticated architectural ideas that contribute to the overall narrative and functionality of this contemporary living space.
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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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