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Corten Steel Terraces and Modular Construction in a Sustainable Urban Housing Initiative

Author:
Yin Ting Wong
Corten Steel Terraces and Modular Construction in a Sustainable Urban Housing Initiative

Project in-detail

With Corten steel terraces integrated into modular construction, the design elevates urban living by combining communal gardens and sustainable materials to create a dynamic social housing initiative.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel terraces enhance durability while providing aesthetic appeal.
02
Modular construction allows for flexible unit configurations and efficient assembly.
03
Integrated communal gardens support urban agriculture and community engagement.
04
Design prioritizes natural light through strategically oriented living units.
05
Materials chosen emphasize energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.

### Overview

Located in an urban area characterized by socio-economic disparity, the Apple Hill project addresses the critical need for social housing in cities like New York. With a focus on sustainable living and community engagement, the development seeks to create an environment that not only provides essential housing but also encourages public involvement and agricultural practices.

### Spatial Dynamics and Community Integration

The project emphasizes the importance of communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents. Open areas, shared corridors, and communal gardens are strategically designed to facilitate engagement within the community. The layout enhances connectivity with surroundings, while the thoughtful placement of living units optimizes natural views towards the East River, contributing to residents' overall quality of life.

To further promote communal interaction, Apple Hill incorporates farming terraces and roof gardens. These spaces are designed to combat urban food deserts, offering a venue for residents to cultivate food while forming strong community ties. The integration of both private and communal circulation routes ensures accessibility and ease of movement, balancing individual privacy with a supportive communal environment.

### Material Selection and Construction Methodology

The project employs an array of materials selected for their performance and ecological value. Corten steel adds structural integrity and visual interest, while C-section steel studs provide essential framing for modular units. Mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency through thermal and acoustic performance. Plywood, utilized in various thicknesses, contributes to a lightweight yet sturdy construction, and Fliteline board offers cost-effective functionality. Additionally, rubber gaskets ensure waterproofing and insulation, vital for the structure's durability.

A modular construction approach is adopted to streamline assembly and minimize disruptions during the building process. This method not only allows for efficient transportation of components but also aligns with the project's goal of meeting the growing demand for affordable housing solutions adaptively.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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