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Cylindrical Housing Units with Structural Panels and Shared Courtyards in San Francisco

Authors:
Ankur Sharma, Anurag Pandey
Cylindrical Housing Units with Structural Panels and Shared Courtyards in San Francisco
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Radial arrangements of cylindrical housing units atop existing rooftops create sustainable living solutions in San Francisco, enhanced by shared courtyards and environmentally conscious design elements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Radial housing units utilize existing rooftops for efficient space usage.
02
Each unit accommodates up to 40 residents at urban intersections.
03
Shared courtyards promote community interaction and social engagement.
04
Constructed with structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
05
Urban advertising elements provide funding while serving a communal purpose.

The architectural design proposed for San Francisco aims to address the growing demand for housing in a city facing significant pressures on its housing supply. With a sharp increase in population and rents over the past decade, there is an urgent need to find new ways to utilize urban spaces. The design focuses on integrating housing units into the existing urban grid, taking advantage of the city’s unique layout to develop practical living solutions.

Concept and Design Approach
The core idea involves placing new housing units on rooftops at city intersections. This strategy allows for a radial arrangement of cylindrical housing units, accommodating around 40 individuals at each site. This design makes efficient use of land while preserving the characteristic urban fabric of San Francisco. Existing structures serve as the foundation for these new units, maintaining the continuity of the environment.

Community Interaction
An important feature of this design is its encouragement of community engagement. Shared courtyards are incorporated to promote social activities among residents, reflecting a traditional aspect of San Francisco's urban planning. Central hammocks in these courtyards are intended to provide relaxing spaces for people to gather and interact. The inclusion of urban advertising serves a practical purpose: it generates revenue to support construction costs while also functioning as a platform for broadcasting local events, thereby enhancing the social fabric of the area.

Proposed Locations
Three potential sites have been identified for this initiative: Ellsworth Street, Hanover Street, and S Van Ness Avenue. Each location presents unique opportunities for blending the new housing with existing neighborhoods, contributing to the overall revitalization of these urban areas.

Materials and Sustainability
The project outlines specific materials intended to enhance durability and ensure sustainability. Structural insulated panels will provide both insulation and structural support while remaining lightweight. Renewable cork sheets will be used in kitchens and bathrooms, chosen for their cost-effectiveness. Recycled plastic tiles are also included to promote environmentally friendly practices. Glazed windows will enhance natural lighting, and thin solar film will be used to improve energy efficiency throughout the residential units.

The design thoughtfully addresses the housing needs of the community while maintaining a connection to the existing urban landscape. The central courtyards not only invite interaction but also generate a sense of place, encouraging a vibrant community atmosphere within the city.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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