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Elevated Living Under A Bridge With Steel Framework And Wood Cladding

Author:
Shuvaan Pillay
Elevated Living Under A Bridge With Steel Framework And Wood Cladding

Project in-detail

Built beneath a bridge, this residence utilizes a robust steel framework and warm wood cladding to create a sustainable and community-oriented living space that effectively maximizes light and airflow.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes structural elements of an existing bridge to enhance stability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates large glass panels for maximum natural light and cross-ventilation.
03
Features communal terraces that promote social interaction among residents.
04
Employs wood cladding for warmth, paired with a durable steel framework.
05
Optimized layout minimizes energy consumption while maximizing usable space.

## Project Overview

The Underbridge Home is situated beneath an urban bridge, addressing the challenges of constrained living spaces within metropolitan settings. This design transforms an overlooked area into a functional residence that integrates modern aesthetics with practical considerations. The intent is to maximize light and spatial efficiency while fostering community integration within a dense urban context.

## Spatial Configuration

The layout of the residence delineates clear divisions between private and communal areas, optimizing movement and interaction. The floor plan features designated spaces for living, dining, and sleeping, designed to enhance accessibility and natural light through strategically placed windows. Vertical sections reveal the elevation beneath the bridge, seamlessly combining the structural elements with the living environment, which enhances both stability and visual appeal.

## Material Selection

The material palette emphasizes durability and sustainability. A steel framework provides structural integrity, allowing for expansive openings that facilitate natural light and air flow. Complementary wood cladding introduces warmth and insulation properties, creating a comfortable interior. Expansive glass panels establish a connection with the outdoor environment, while reinforced concrete underpins the structure, ensuring resilience against environmental pressures.

Additionally, the design incorporates large openings and cross-ventilation techniques to promote natural airflow, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Communal elements, such as terraces and balconies, are integrated into the design, encouraging interaction among residents and enhancing the sense of community within the urban landscape.

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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
competition now

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