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Corten Steel Grid Housing Embracing Community Dynamics in Berlin

Authors:
Shamsudin Kerimov, Ekaterina Kudinova, Asel Ravilova
Corten Steel Grid Housing Embracing Community Dynamics in Berlin
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A Corten steel grid structure integrates mini wind turbines and flexible housing typologies to create a sustainable community in Berlin, redefining urban living through adaptable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel grid design allows for energy generation through integrated mini wind turbines.
02
Flexible unit configurations enable personalization for diverse resident needs.
03
Translucent materials maintain privacy while maximizing natural light.
04
Three adaptable housing typologies respond to various urban contexts.
05
Visual facade evolves with resident interior choices, promoting community identity.

The design focuses on social housing in Berlin, creatively utilizing the historical context of the Berlin Wall to shape its concept. The aim is to redefine the perceived barriers in urban living and to foster community connections. The overall structure emphasizes sustainability, flexibility, and the individual preferences of residents within the housing units.

Inspiration and Concept

The project draws inspiration from reinforcement mesh commonly found in concrete structures. This mesh features a rhythmic, semi-permeable quality with larger and smaller cells forming a pattern of vertical stripes. This visual element symbolizes hope and renewal, acting as a reminder that separation can give way to connection in the urban environment.

Architectural Form

A Corten steel grid forms the primary structure of the design. This grid serves as an organizing framework, integrating essential features such as communication pathways, staircases, and elevator shafts. The design includes pillars equipped with mini wind turbines to generate energy. Additionally, lamps are positioned to enhance the lighting throughout the housing area, creating a functional and inviting atmosphere.

Adaptability and Housing Typologies

The design incorporates three types of housing that cater to various living conditions. The first is detached buildings, which can be placed in different settings like fields or vacant railway stations. The second type consists of extensions that connect with existing buildings. The third type involves additions that extend above current facades. This adaptability shows a response to the diverse needs of the urban landscape.

Personalization and Privacy

A flexible approach supports the residential layout, allowing for different unit configurations, such as two-room and three-room options. The design uses translucent materials, specifically frosted glass, to maintain privacy while allowing light to enter. This allows each unit to offer a personal touch within a standardized system, leading to a unique appearance for each living space.

As the residents inhabit the space, their diverse interior choices create a lively facade. This display contributes to an overall sense of community and individuality, reflecting the aim of the housing design.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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