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Delta Beams and Hollow-Core Slabs Shaping Flexible Urban Living

Authors:
George Kontaroudis, Michail-Karolos Keranis, Dimitrios Stivaros
Delta Beams and Hollow-Core Slabs Shaping Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with pre-fabricated Delta Beams and hollow-core slabs, the design redefines urban living by integrating flexible micro-units tailored for diverse resident needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes pre-fabricated Delta Beams for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates hollow-core concrete slabs with integrated plumbing openings.
03
Features an Internal Module design for optimized accessibility and flexibility.
04
Employs standardized panel modules for consistent facade aesthetics.
05
Strategically placed utility walls every 25 feet streamline infrastructure layout.

The design located at 225 W 28th Street in New York City meets critical housing needs in a bustling urban environment. The project draws from the city’s extensive history of residential developments while addressing the modern requirements for flexible living spaces. A variety of housing types are incorporated, ensuring that the design adapts to diverse lifestyles and family structures.

Micro-Unit Development

Using a micro-unit strategy, the design aligns with New York City’s standard block dimensions of 25 feet by 100 feet. This method makes efficient use of available space while allowing each unit to fit comfortably within the urban setting. The layout aims to create a balance between community engagement and personal privacy, addressing the unique challenges faced in densely populated areas.

Internal Module Design

The Internal Module system stands out in the design, highlighting accessibility and functionality. Each living unit is organized with distinct areas for living and utility functions, such as kitchens and bathrooms. These spaces are separated by circulation zones, allowing for optimal movement throughout. This organization not only maximizes the use of space but also allows for modifications as residents' needs evolve.

Structural and Material Choices

The design features a pre-fabricated steel framework, utilizing pre-fire proofed composite Delta Beams and Composite Columns. This choice supports the building’s overall strength while providing greater ceiling height and more natural light inside. Additionally, the flooring system is made of 8-inch precast hollow core concrete slabs that come with openings for plumbing. Such a choice simplifies the installation of utilities throughout the building. Utility walls are placed every 25 feet, serving all bathrooms and kitchens, which streamlines the overall layout.

Facade and Aesthetic Considerations

The building’s facade employs standardized panel modules, which create a consistent architectural look. These panels not only support the window systems but also help maximize light entry into living spaces. The design aims to combine practical functionality with a clear visual style, contributing to the area’s urban character while enhancing the daily experience for residents.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design, from organized living spaces to thoughtful material choices. Each element works together to create a responsive and welcoming environment that addresses the complexities of urban living in New York City.

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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
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