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Corten Steel Facade and Rooftop Garden Enhance Urban Residential Living

Authors:
Damian Webster, Nicholas Gordon
Corten Steel Facade and Rooftop Garden Enhance Urban Residential Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a corten steel façade and integrated rooftop gardens, the design prioritizes sensory engagement and community interaction within a residential setting in Williamsburg.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a corten steel façade that evolves in appearance over time.
02
Integrated rooftop gardens cultivate edible plants for community use.
03
Open communal spaces are designed to enhance social interaction among residents.
04
Large windows maximize natural light and establish visual connections to the outdoors.
05
Memory foam finishes in sleeping areas provide enhanced comfort and sensory experience.
The project "Architectural Senses" is a residential building located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Designed to create a sensory experience that enhances human interaction with both the building and the surrounding urban environment, this architectural endeavor integrates communal and private spaces, fostering a sense of community among its inhabitants. The architectural layout is organized to optimize the connection between the interior environments and the external landscape while considering the functional needs of modern urban living.

One of the defining characteristics of this architectural design is its undulating façade composed of corten steel. This material not only provides structural resilience but also develops a distinctive weathered aesthetic, allowing the building to adapt visually within its urban context. The design incorporates rooftop gardens that contribute to both ecological sustainability and the sensory experience of the residents, featuring edible plants such as lavender and mint. These elements support a lifestyle that connects inhabitants with nature and promotes sustainability within an urban framework.

The interior layout emphasizes openness and flexibility, with substantial communal areas adjacent to private bedrooms. This design approach allows for social interaction while ensuring personal privacy. Large windows throughout the building facilitate natural light and visual continuity with the outside world, significantly enhancing the livability of the spaces. The choice of materials such as memory foam in sleeping areas and wood finishes in communal spaces enriches texture and comfort, thereby addressing the sensory quality of the architecture.

Unique Features and Design Approaches

A key differentiator of "Architectural Senses" is its intentional focus on multi-sensory engagement through both spatial organization and material selection. The architecture is designed to evoke sensations related to touch, sight, sound, and smell, thereby deepening the relationship between the inhabitants and their environment. The integration of indoor plants and community gardens not only serves functional purposes but also transforms the atmosphere within the building, making nature a predominant feature of the living experience.

The architectural design navigates the challenge of urban density by carefully balancing communal and private elements. The circulation paths within the building are thoughtfully planned to encourage movement while providing visual landmarks and tactile references that guide residents through the space. This strategic layout enhances usability and promotes an active lifestyle, contributing to the overall mission of the project.

Sustainable Practices and Material Selection

The material palette of "Architectural Senses" plays a crucial role in both aesthetics and functionality. Corten steel, wood, concrete, glass, and other sustainable materials are selected for their durability, aesthetic qualities, and sensory properties. The exterior materials are designed to weather naturally, creating a unique visual identity that evolves with time. The use of natural textures and colors in the interior reinforces the project's commitment to enhancing human experience through design.

In summary, "Architectural Senses" sets a precedent for integrating architecture and sensory experience in a residential format. By focusing on community-building and sustainable principles, the project offers innovative solutions for modern living. To explore the project further, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, we invite readers to review the detailed presentation of "Architectural Senses" for additional insights into this thoughtfully executed architecture.
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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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