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Elevated Habitat Crafted From Birch Plywood and Blackened Steel Integrating Green Spaces

Authors:
Christine Williams, Jeremy Jerge
Elevated Habitat Crafted From Birch Plywood and Blackened Steel Integrating Green Spaces

Project in-detail

Elevated above the ground on robust concrete columns, a habitat crafted from birch plywood and blackened steel incorporates lush green spaces, creating a cohesive community environment designed to enhance urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The habitat is elevated by concrete columns, freeing up ground space for public green areas.
02
Each unit utilizes birch plywood for interiors, promoting warmth and natural aesthetics.
03
Natural ventilation systems are integrated, enhancing air quality without mechanical reliance.
04
Solar panels are incorporated into skylights, allowing for energy-efficient living.
05
The modular design enables flexibility in unit arrangement to suit various urban contexts.
The Reforestation architectural design project represents a nuanced approach to addressing the complexities of urban living. Situated within a metropolitan context, the project seeks to integrate green spaces into densely populated areas while providing innovative housing solutions. The essence of this project lies in its ambition to foster a connection between urban residents and their natural surroundings, reimagining the urban landscape as a more livable and sustainable environment.

At its core, the project serves dual functions: it provides housing accommodations while simultaneously revitalizing public spaces. The design concept is rooted in the metaphor of trees, symbolizing growth, resilience, and community. By elevating living units above ground, the project creates a dynamic interplay between nature and architecture, transforming traditional housing paradigms. The elevated units minimize land footprint while maximizing potential for biodiversity at ground level, thus promoting environmental sustainability.

The architecture is characterized by modular housing units that are organized in a manner reminiscent of a forest canopy. This innovative layout encourages interactions among residents and supports the integration of community spaces within the urban core. Each unit is efficiently designed to ensure functionality and adaptability, incorporating flexible living arrangements that can cater to varying family sizes and lifestyles. Thoughtful design elements further enhance the aesthetic and practical aspects of the housing, with expansive glass walls providing ample natural light and breathtaking views of the cityscape.

Materiality plays a critical role in the project's overall approach. The use of birch plywood offers warmth and a connection to natural textures, while blackened structural steel contributes to the durability and modern aesthetic of the design. Polished concrete acts as a robust foundation for the elevated units, complementing the use of low emissivity glazing that enhances energy efficiency. This careful selection of materials not only supports the structural integrity of the project but also aligns with its sustainable ethos.

One of the standout features of this architectural design is its commitment to active and passive sustainability. Solar panels strategically positioned within skylights ensure a harnessing of renewable energy, allowing residents to engage in environmentally conscious living without sacrificing comfort. The incorporation of natural ventilation systems promotes healthy indoor climates, showcasing an understanding of the importance of air quality in urban settings.

Unique design approaches also extend to the multifunctional use of space. Ground-level areas, often overlooked in conventional housing developments, are re-envisioned as vibrant public spaces that facilitate community-building. Open plazas and green spaces provide essential amenities for social interaction, allowing residents to engage with one another and the environment. This focus on communal spaces not only enriches the lives of current residents but lays the foundation for future interactions in the urban landscape.

Moreover, the project is designed with adaptability in mind, allowing for flexible development options in various urban contexts. The modular arrangement of units fosters a sense of autonomy while ensuring that each space can be tailored to specific site needs. This careful consideration expands the project's applicability, making it a practical solution for other densely populated areas facing similar challenges.

The Reforestation architectural design project stands as a thoughtful response to the needs of urban residents, presenting a vision of how housing can coexist harmoniously with nature. Its innovative uses of space, sustainable practices, and community-focused elements reflect a significant step towards redefining urban living. For readers interested in exploring the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, reviewing additional presentations can provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that drive this compelling project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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