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Elevated Community Spaces with Metallic Framework and Cement Boards

Authors:
Livia Zanelli de Morais, Thamires Bressan, Gabriel Costa Macorin, Eduardo Rodrigues Ferreira
Elevated Community Spaces with Metallic Framework and Cement Boards

Project in-detail

Constructed above railway lines, the design utilizes a metallic framework and cement boards to create adaptable housing units that enhance community interaction while addressing the need for affordable living in New York City.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular housing units allow for flexible configurations tailored to different household needs.
02
Elevated public platforms enhance community interaction above underutilized railway lines.
03
Cement boards provide durable exterior finishes suited for urban environments.
04
The metallic framework supports the unique structural integrity required for adaptive living spaces.
05
Design prioritizes natural light, creating bright interiors that improve resident well-being.

The project addresses the ongoing need for affordable housing in New York City, where high population density and limited land present significant challenges. It aims to convert underused railway corridors into active residential neighborhoods. The design connects various functions—housing, retail, and public spaces—to form a cohesive urban environment. By utilizing these urban voids, it seeks to enhance connectivity and make living in the city more pleasant.

Modular Housing Design

A key feature is the modular design of housing units laid out in 5x5 meter sections. This approach allows for various configurations that can suit different household sizes and preferences. The flexibility of the modular design enables residents to customize their living spaces as their needs change, making it adaptable to a diverse urban population.

Public Interaction Spaces

Above the railway lines, elevated platforms function as communal areas where residents can interact. These spaces foster connections between individuals and integrate residential units with the wider neighborhood. By providing areas for social engagement, the design creates a sense of community and places emphasis on relationships among residents.

Structural Integrity and Materials

The buildings are supported by a metallic framework that offers strength while allowing flexibility in design. Cement boards serve as the exterior cladding, providing a durable finish that also contributes visually to the overall look. Inside, drywall partitions allow for adaptable internal layouts. The careful choice of materials aims to achieve a practical and appealing environment for residents.

The intent of the project is to breathe new life into overlooked areas of the city. It encourages economic activity through retail spaces and enhances public amenities for all. A notable design feature is the use of large windows in the living spaces, which allow ample natural light to enter, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

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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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