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Cubic Modular Housing Emphasizing Vegetation Integration and Urban Flexibility

Authors:
John Henry, Michael Rostami
Cubic Modular Housing Emphasizing Vegetation Integration and Urban Flexibility

Project in-detail

Cubic modular frames are strategically integrated with vegetation to create a flexible urban living solution that addresses the pressing need for affordable housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cubic modular frames allow for efficient assembly and customization.
02
Vegetation integration enhances environmental quality and livability.
03
Diverse unit configurations cater to various demographic needs.
04
Lifting prefabricated boxes from barges streamlines construction.
05
Vertical access shafts ensure comprehensive accessibility for all residents.

The affordable housing development in New York aims to address the pressing need for accessible living spaces in a densely populated urban area. It focuses on flexibility and sustainability. The design incorporates modular construction techniques, which allow for efficient building while meeting the various needs of city residents. The project seeks to create a sense of community and adaptability to different site conditions.

Modularity and Adaptability
At the center of the design is a modular structure system that uses prefabricated boxes. This system makes construction more cost-effective and allows for customization. Each unit can be adapted to fit various plot sizes and site limitations. The single cubic modular frame serves as a versatile building block, easily replicable both horizontally and vertically. This approach increases density, which is important in urban settings, while retaining architectural appeal.

Diverse Unit Configurations
The design includes different sizes and forms of units, catering to the needs of various household types. This diversity invites a mix of residents, ensuring that everyone can find a space that suits them. Flexibility is a key feature of the project, allowing for future modifications as residents’ needs change over time. The arrangement encourages inclusivity and community interaction within the living environment.

Sustainability and Green Infrastructure
Sustainability is an essential part of the development. By strategically placing vegetation throughout the housing, the project creates a more pleasant living atmosphere. These green features contribute to better air quality and help build a positive microclimate. The focus on environmental considerations enhances the overall quality of life for residents, making the space not just functional, but also more enjoyable to live in.

Efficient Implementation
The building process highlights an efficient approach. Prefabricated boxes are lifted directly from barges to the site for assembly, which minimizes disruption and speeds up construction. Vertical access, including elevators and stairs, ensures that all units are easily reachable. This attention to accessibility allows for a more equitable living environment, accommodating the needs of all residents.

The layout features a random story plan that showcases various unit types, encouraging interaction among residents and fostering a sense of community within the development.

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

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Competition organisers

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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