Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Living Spaces Featuring Glass Facades and Eco-Friendly Materials Surrounding a Community Bathhouse

Authors:
Justin Yeung, Yat shun Tang, Jonathan Lau
Elevated Living Spaces Featuring Glass Facades and Eco-Friendly Materials Surrounding a Community Bathhouse

Project in-detail

Elevated living units wrapped in glass facades and complemented by communal terraces create a multifaceted residential environment centered around a public bathhouse in Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated living units are designed to optimize natural light and views while maintaining privacy.
02
The central bathhouse serves as both a functional space and a community gathering area.
03
Sustainable rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the building's structure.
04
Glass façades enhance transparency and visual connectivity between interior and exterior spaces.
05
Charred wooden shingles provide aesthetic appeal and durability against the elements.
The architectural project known as "The Clouds" is designed as a co-living facility combined with community bathing spaces in Rome, Italy. The project serves as both a residential complex and a public amenity, aiming to redefine the notions of dwelling and communal living. Capitalizing on historical Roman bathing traditions, it integrates modern architectural principles to create multifunctional spaces that foster social interaction and connectivity among residents.

The structure consists of elevated living units that encircle a central public bathhouse. This configuration allows for an efficient use of space while maintaining distinct areas for private and communal activities. The design promotes an innovative approach to urban density, addressing the increasing need for shared living solutions in metropolitan areas.

Unique Design Approaches

The project stands out due to its emphasis on community engagement through shared facilities. The central bathhouse serves not only basic hygiene needs but also acts as a social hub. This communal aspect is integral to the design, contrasting with typical residential frameworks that often favor isolation.

Another distinctive feature is the fluid connectivity between different functional areas. Outdoor walkways and terraces provide circulation pathways that enhance interaction among residents while ensuring easy access to amenities. This thoughtful integration of spaces prioritizes both accessibility and privacy.

Use of Materials

The material choice for "The Clouds" reflects both functional and aesthetic considerations. A blend of concrete, glass, wood, and metal has been employed to achieve a balance between durability and comfort. Concrete provides structural integrity, while extensive use of glass enhances natural light and transparency, encouraging openness. Wood elements contribute warmth to the interiors, creating an inviting atmosphere in shared spaces.

Architectural Impact on Urban Living

The architectural design actively addresses urban living challenges. By incorporating sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting systems, the project represents a responsible approach to resource management. In addition, the flexible layout of living units accommodates various family sizes and lifestyle needs, making the facility adaptable for different occupants.

The integration of co-living concepts with public amenities within one cohesive structure repositions urban housing as a multifunctional environment rather than mere residences. The design encourages a shift in how communities engage with their surroundings, reflecting a growing trend toward integrated living solutions.

For a more detailed exploration of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, viewers are encouraged to review the full presentation of "The Clouds." Insights into the project's comprehensive design ideas will provide a deeper understanding of its potential impact on urban living and community dynamics.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy