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Curvilinear Metal Cladding and Green Roofs Enhance Backyard Infill Living in Melbourne

Author:
Conner Payne
Curvilinear Metal Cladding and Green Roofs Enhance Backyard Infill Living in Melbourne

Project in-detail

Curvilinear shapes and durable metal cladding harmonize with extensive green roofs to create a versatile backyard infill solution, fostering community living in Melbourne's urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with curvilinear forms that soften the urban landscape while enhancing spatial flow.
02
Incorporates extensive green roofs that contribute to biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively.
03
Utilizes durable metal cladding for both aesthetic appeal and low-maintenance longevity.
04
Features communal courtyards that encourage social interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community.
05
Offers a diverse range of unit types, specifically catering to various demographics and housing needs within Melbourne.
The project at hand represents an innovative exploration of urban density within the context of Melbourne's residential landscape. By focusing on repurposing underutilized backyard spaces, the design aims to address the pressing issue of affordable housing while promoting sustainable living. This architectural initiative exemplifies a thoughtful interpretation of infill housing, generating opportunities for diverse residential types that cater to the varied needs of the community.

At its core, this project serves a dual function: it not only provides necessary housing options but also revitalizes existing neighborhoods by integrating new living spaces within established areas. This approach helps to enhance the sense of community, as it encourages interaction among residents and fosters a more connected urban environment. The careful consideration given to unit types, which range from compact one-bedroom units to family-sized accommodations, allows for a broader demographic to engage with and benefit from the housing solutions presented.

A notable aspect of the design is its emphasis on communal outdoor spaces. These shared areas are strategically positioned to serve as vibrant social hubs, enhancing community interaction and well-being. By incorporating landscaping and seating arrangements, the project encourages residents to utilize these spaces, strengthening ties within the neighborhood. This focus on shared experiences promotes a more cohesive community and underscores the importance of social interaction in urban living.

The architectural design employs a contemporary aesthetic characterized by clean lines and rounded forms, which not only contributes to its visual appeal but also facilitates a blend with the surrounding environment. This consideration of scale is crucial, as it ensures that the new structures resonate harmoniously with existing homes while making a distinctive yet unintrusive statement in the neighborhood.

Materiality plays an integral role in the project's identity. The use of structural insulated panels provides energy efficiency and adaptability, allowing for faster construction timelines. Glass elements are featured prominently, maximizing natural light and creating an enhanced connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The incorporation of corrugated metal cladding lends a modern touch and ensures durability, while concrete paving in communal areas offers a robust, low-maintenance surface suitable for pedestrian traffic. Green roofs on selected units further highlight the project's commitment to sustainability, contributing to ecological wellness and stormwater management.

This project is unique not only in its architectural choices but also in its approach to economic viability. By introducing a framework for homeowners to develop backyard units, it creates a win-win situation; property owners can generate supplemental income, and the community gains access to affordable housing options. This mutually beneficial solution encourages the thoughtful utilization of land without the need for extensive urban sprawl.

Overall, this innovative approach to urban densification in Melbourne reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of contemporary housing challenges. It addresses affordability, sustainability, and community interaction—all critical components of successful urban development. The design signifies a thoughtful, human-centered approach to architecture that focuses on enhancing lifestyle choices while fostering lasting connections in the community.

For those interested in exploring this architectural endeavor further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs reveal the intricacies of the project. Delving deeper into these elements will provide additional insights into the creative thought processes that informed this distinctive approach to urban living.
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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
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