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Elevated Community Living With Magnetic Panels And Natural Wood Cladding

Authors:
Joseph Ong, Jeremy Gusset
Elevated Community Living With Magnetic Panels And Natural Wood Cladding

Project in-detail

With its innovative use of magnetic panels and warm wood cladding, this urban development transforms the site of a former hospital into a vibrant community hub designed for shared living and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes magnetic panels for innovative façade design that enhances both functionality and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates warm wood cladding to create a natural, inviting atmosphere within urban settings.
03
Features a central atrium that promotes natural light and fosters community interaction.
04
Employs modular housing units that adapt to varying family structures and communal living needs.
05
Integrates flexible shared spaces aimed at encouraging social engagement among residents.
The Sub Level Co-Operative architectural project embodies a promising vision for urban living, combining community-oriented design with sustainability. Located on the site of the San Giacomo Hospital, the project seeks to harmonize the area's historical significance with contemporary needs. The architecture serves a dual purpose; it is not merely a residential space but a catalyst for social interaction and community building.

The design prioritizes communal spaces while still respecting individual privacy, a challenge in multi-family living. It introduces a framework of modular housing units that can be flexibly arranged to accommodate diverse family sizes and lifestyles. This adaptability reflects an evolving understanding of modern urban living, where traditional family structures are often complemented by communal arrangements. The housing pods, constructed from a variety of materials including rustic wood cladding and transparent resin textiles, are designed to respond to changing demographics and foster a sense of belonging within the community.

Public spaces are a focal point of the Sub Level Co-Operative. The design incorporates shared facilities such as cafes, gathering spots, and recreational areas that encourage interaction among residents. These spaces are strategically placed to serve as social hubs where community members can engage in activities and foster relationships. The central atrium, known for its ample natural light through large glass openings, further enhances this environment by providing a welcoming atmosphere in which people can congregate.

Vertical circulation is another critical aspect of the project. Thoughtfully designed connections facilitate easy movement between various levels, uniting private living areas with communal spaces. This vertical stratification not only optimizes space utilization but also enhances the accessibility of facilities, allowing residents of all ages and abilities to navigate seamlessly throughout the building.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of the design, making responsible material selection a core principle. The project utilizes a diverse array of materials, including magnetic panels and varied stone, which not only contribute to aesthetic diversity but also emphasize durability and low-maintenance needs. These choices reflect a commitment to environmental considerations, an essential component in contemporary architectural practices.

Moreover, the Sub Level Co-Operative is noteworthy for its cultural sensitivity, integrating architectural elements that resonate with local heritage while providing a forward-thinking solution to urban housing. The design respects the architectural vernacular of the surrounding area, ensuring that the new construction complements existing structures and supports the historical narrative of the location.

In exploring the project further, it is highly recommended to delve into the architectural plans and sections. A closer examination of these elements can provide valuable insights into the innovative solutions and design ideas that define the Sub Level Co-Operative. By reviewing these architectural designs, stakeholders can gain a deeper appreciation for how this project addresses both the functional and social needs of its future residents. Emphasizing the importance of community-driven architecture, the Sub Level Co-Operative stands as a relevant case study for modern urban living, encouraging engagement and interaction among inhabitants while promoting sustainability and adaptability in design.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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