Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Corten Steel Facades and Rooftop Farming Integrate Community Living in Sustainable Design

Author:
Yin Ting Wong
Corten Steel Facades and Rooftop Farming Integrate Community Living in Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

With Corten steel facades that echo the industrial landscape and innovative rooftop farming terraces that empower community engagement, this residential design redefines urban living through sustainability and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features rooftop farming terraces that provide fresh produce while promoting community interaction.
02
Corten steel facades are used for durability and a distinctive aesthetic, reflecting the surrounding urban environment.
03
Flexible living units accommodate a range of household sizes, enhancing adaptability for diverse residents.
04
Social corridors in the design foster casual interactions between neighbors, encouraging a sense of community.
05
Mineral wool insulation is incorporated to improve energy efficiency and comfort within the residential units.
The architectural project Applehill represents a thoughtful response to the urgent need for community-focused urban housing. Situated in a previously underserved area, this design merges residential functionality with communal engagement, emphasizing the importance of both personal living spaces and public interaction. The project aims to foster a vibrant community atmosphere while addressing the pressing challenges of urban housing.

Applehill embodies a holistic approach to architecture, where the design serves multiple purposes beyond just providing shelter. At its core, the project is structured to facilitate social connections among residents, encouraging a lively neighborhood environment. By incorporating shared spaces such as communal gardens and social areas, Applehill underlines the fundamental value of community living. The architecture of the project effectively integrates these elements, ensuring that social interaction is a vital part of the daily lives of its inhabitants.

The design of Applehill is characterized by its modular layout, which ensures flexibility in accommodating diverse living arrangements. These units range from modest bachelor apartments to more spacious family-oriented homes, allowing individuals and families to find a suitable living situation that matches their needs. This adaptability is crucial in urban settings where the demand for housing can vary significantly. Additionally, the architecture incorporates public spaces that provide opportunities for recreation and community gatherings, thereby enhancing the project’s functionality and appeal.

A standout feature of Applehill is its innovative use of roofing for urban agriculture. The design includes rooftop farming terraces that are not only a practical solution for food production but also serve to educate residents on sustainable practices and foster a sense of stewardship toward the environment. This agricultural component aligns with the project’s overarching goal of promoting self-sufficiency within the community, providing fresh produce to residents and reducing the reliance on external food sources.

The materials selected for Applehill are both durable and sustainable, striking a balance between aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility. Corten steel elements, complete with a distinctive corrugated design, provide structural integrity while contributing to the visual character of the project. Steel studs serve as the backbone of the residential units, while plywood offers flexibility for interior configurations, resulting in spaces that are both functional and comfortable. Furthermore, mineral wool insulation is incorporated to enhance energy efficiency, ensuring that the living spaces are not only sustainable but also conducive to a high quality of life.

Unique design approaches in Applehill also include the integration of social corridors—spaces that promote interaction among residents while still maintaining privacy when needed. These corridors can easily be transformed to host larger gatherings, showcasing the architecture's versatility. The overall formulation of the dwelling units, combined with public access rooftops, reinforces the idea of shared experiences within the community, allowing residents to connect over shared interests and initiatives.

Through its multiple layers of design and thoughtful spatial arrangements, Applehill serves as an effective model for future urban housing projects. The emphasis on social sustainability, community engagement, and responsible living underscores its relevance in contemporary architecture. To gain a deeper understanding of this project’s innovative designs and thoughtful solutions, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas presented in the project documentation to appreciate the full spectrum of its benefits and potential.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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