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Elevated Living Spaces Enclosed in Concrete and Steel with Enhanced Natural Light

Authors:
Richard Prugger, Simon Kimmel
Elevated Living Spaces Enclosed in Concrete and Steel with Enhanced Natural Light
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Stacked residential units crafted with steel and concrete, enhanced by natural light, create adaptable living environments that foster community interactions in a densely populated urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical stacking of residential units maximizes limited ground space.
02
Adaptable interior partitions allow for personalized living configurations.
03
Communal platforms at various heights encourage resident interaction.
04
Use of locally sourced materials enhances sustainability and reduces environmental impact.
05
Natural light is emphasized through strategically placed glass elements throughout the structure.

### Overview
Located in Hong Kong, the project addresses the city's significant housing challenges through a focus on vertical living. This design concept transforms spatial limitations into opportunities for community engagement, organizing residential units in a towering structure that optimizes land use while facilitating social interactions among residents. The architectural framework encourages a reevaluation of urban living, promoting flexibility and adaptability within densely populated environments.

### Vertical Organization
A key aspect of the design is the strict vertical arrangement of residential units, which maximizes the use of limited ground space. Residential towers are interconnected by shared platforms, fostering a sense of community and encouraging resident interaction. This organization distinguishes between micro and macro living spaces: compact units for individual or dual occupancy are complemented by communal areas that accommodate larger gatherings, thereby enhancing both personal privacy and social connectivity.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection is integral to the project's functionality, affordability, and sustainability. The central core structure utilizes concrete to provide necessary strength, while steel supports the vertical framework, allowing for flexible spatial configurations. Glass elements enhance natural light, creating visual connections between the interiors and the surrounding environment. Timber is introduced in select areas to evoke warmth, counterbalancing the modern materials employed throughout. Textiles, such as curtains and partition panels, are designed for easy customization, adapting to the residents' needs. The overall approach emphasizes minimalism and sustainability, ensuring the design addresses both economic viability and environmental stewardship.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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