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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.
The Underbridge Home is an innovative architectural project that makes effective use of urban space by integrating residential living beneath an existing bridge. This design approach responds to the challenges posed by limited urban land, offering a solution that prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. The project embodies principles of adaptive reuse, turning an underutilized area into a livable space that fosters connectivity with its surroundings.

The architecture of Underbridge Home focuses on maximizing both light and space, featuring distinct zones for private and communal living. The design incorporates an elevated platform that lends itself to large windows, allowing for natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces. The separation of areas accommodates a variety of uses while ensuring that the home maintains a sense of openness and flow.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of the Underbridge Home is its integration with pre-existing infrastructure. By situating the residence below a bridge, the design challenges conventional ideas of urban housing and redefines space utilization. The structural features of the bridge are seamlessly incorporated into the home, allowing for structural integrity while creating a unique aesthetic.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of the project. The use of materials such as steel for the framework and wood for cladding contributes both to durability and environmental performance. Large expanses of glass are utilized to enhance connectivity with the outdoors and to promote natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on artificial climate controls. These design choices collectively create a light-filled, energy-efficient living space that promotes a healthy indoor environment.

Architectural Details

Key architectural details include the careful selection of materials that blend functional requirements with aesthetic appeal. The steel framework supports the home, while wood cladding offers warmth and texture, creating a juxtaposition between industrial and organic elements. Reinforced concrete is employed for structural stability, ensuring longevity in an urban setting.

Shared spaces, such as terraces and balconies, facilitate interaction among residents, enriching community dynamics. This design element signifies a shift from isolative residential units towards a more collaborative living experience, which is essential in densely populated urban environments.

For those interested in exploring the Underbridge Home further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the project's innovative ideas and technical execution. Delve into the architectural details that reveal how this project not only addresses the need for housing but also enhances urban living through thoughtful design solutions.
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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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