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Elasticity and Steel Frames Create Flexible Living Spaces in High-Density Environments

Authors:
Fatima Yilmaz, Jinglin CAI, Xiangyue GUAN
Elasticity and Steel Frames Create Flexible Living Spaces in High-Density Environments

Project in-detail

Combining elastic board facades with modular steel frames, this innovative urban solution seamlessly integrates flexible living spaces into the high-density landscape of Hong Kong.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates flexible elastic board facades to adapt to environmental changes.
02
Features modular steel frames that allow for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates shared communal spaces designed for community interaction and engagement.
05
Adopts a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and airflow throughout the structure.
The architectural project "Gaplife Under Skyscrape" is a thoughtful exploration into urban living, specifically addressing the challenges posed by high-density environments such as Hong Kong. This design embodies the concept of adaptive housing, which is crucial in a city marked by rapid growth and fluctuating social needs. The project delineates new living spaces that coexist with existing infrastructures, highlighting the potential of underutilized plots within an urban context.

The essence of the project lies in its function as both a residential solution and a community-oriented environment. By leveraging the spaces that lie between towering buildings, the design maximizes the use of available land and integrates essential living areas seamlessly into the urban fabric. This not only provides much-needed housing but also encourages social interaction among residents, promoting a sense of community within an otherwise fragmented living situation.

Key features of the project include a diverse range of building typologies, identified from Type A to Type I. Each type serves a specific purpose, providing a mix of private living spaces, shared amenities, and communal areas that are essential for a holistic urban lifestyle. Vertical ergonomics play a vital role in the design, ensuring ease of movement and accessibility throughout the buildings. The configuration of stairs, balconies, and modular units fosters an environment where neighborly interactions can flourish, allowing residents to build relationships while enjoying the comforts of their homes.

Materiality is another significant aspect of the design, focusing on a combination of concrete for structural integrity, steel frames to support lightweight and expansive window designs, and glass to create visual connections with the outside environment. The incorporation of elastic board in the facades allows them to adapt to various climatic conditions, improving energy efficiency. Meanwhile, wooden balconies add warmth and facilitate an engaging relationship with nature, making them ideal for both personal retreat and community engagement.

A unique design approach evident in this project is the innovative facade system, which allows modular units to be adjusted or stacked based on the needs of the residents. This flexibility not only reflects the changing dynamics of urban life but also encourages a deeper interaction between the newly erected structures and the pre-existing buildings. Instead of imposing a rigid design, the architecture responds to and integrates with the historical context of its surroundings, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

Community spaces are also interwoven into the project, highlighting the importance of shared areas such as roof gardens and playgrounds that enhance the resident experience. These spaces provide opportunities for social interactions, enrich everyday life, and contribute to the overall wellbeing of individuals within the urban setting. By consciously designing these communal areas, the project emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration, offering an alternative to conventional urban living.

The "Gaplife Under Skyscrape" project clearly articulates a vision of urban living that is sustainable, functional, and responsive to community needs. It stands as a proactive solution to the pressing housing issues faced by cities like Hong Kong. The modular system and thoughtful integration of amenities reflect an architectural approach that prioritizes human experience within the built environment.

This project invites readers to delve deeper into its architectural plans, sections, and design concepts to uncover further nuances and intricate details of the project. For those interested in exploring innovative architectural ideas that redefine urban landscapes, examining the presentation of "Gaplife Under Skyscrape" will provide valuable insights into contemporary architectural design in high-density settings.
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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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