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Elevated Living Units With Steel Frames and Integrated Photovoltaics Above Urban Parking Spaces

Author:
Jason Pelaez
Elevated Living Units With Steel Frames and Integrated Photovoltaics Above Urban Parking Spaces

Project in-detail

Elevated above a bustling urban parking lot, the residential units constructed with steel frames and enhanced by integrated photovoltaics redefine urban living by transforming overlooked spaces into sustainable homes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Residential units are elevated above parking spaces, creating a new use for underutilized urban land.
02
The design incorporates integrated photovoltaic panels to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Steel framing allows for open spaces, maximizing the functional layout within a compact footprint.
04
Utilization of planter boxes contributes to urban biodiversity and greening efforts.
05
Each unit measures just 25 square meters, efficiently designed to meet essential living needs.
The Aparkment project presents a thoughtful approach to urban living, aiming to address the growing demand for affordable housing within overcrowded metropolitan areas. By converting underutilized parking spaces into livable residential units, the design embodies an innovative solution that combines practicality with sustainability. This project represents a shift toward reimagining urban infrastructure, where the constraints of space are met with creative architectural solutions.

The Aparkment serves multiple functions, primarily as residential spaces that are elegantly integrated into the urban environment. Each unit stands on a typical parking footprint, measuring approximately 25 square meters, demonstrating efficiency in design while ensuring that essential living functions are not compromised. This adaptability to the existing city fabric is central to the project's goal—providing affordable housing without consuming additional land. The use of steel columns reinforces the structure, allowing for open living areas that enhance the sense of space.

In terms of significant elements, The Aparkment is strategically designed across three levels, each serving a distinct purpose. The first level accommodates entry points and access to the parking beneath, creating a seamless blend between public and private realms. The second level features multifunctional living areas that cater to diverse needs, from relaxation to work, while maintaining a flexible environment conducive to modern lifestyles. The uppermost level provides private sleeping quarters and a bathroom, further emphasizing comfort and privacy.

A distinguishing feature of The Aparkment is its commitment to sustainable architecture. The project incorporates various eco-friendly materials and technologies, including steel for structural integrity, wood for interior finishes, and expansive glass windows that facilitate natural light and promote energy efficiency. Additionally, photovoltaic panels on the roof contribute to renewable energy generation, aligning the building with contemporary environmental standards. Rainwater management systems are also integrated into the design, underlining the project’s emphasis on resource conservation and sustainability.

The project stands out not just for its material choices, but also for its design approach to urban living. By elevating residential units above parking areas, The Aparkment challenges conventional notions of space utilization in city settings. The use of planter boxes furthers this effort, promoting biodiversity and adding greenery to the urban landscape. This integration of nature with architecture enhances the livability of the units while contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the building.

The architectural ideas behind The Aparkment are rooted in the principles of adaptability and sustainability, focusing on how urban environments can evolve to meet contemporary needs without expanding their footprints. Instead of viewing parking lots as stagnant spaces, this project reconsiders their potential for housing development. By transferring the notion of ‘parking’ to an elevated context, the design fosters a discussion on alternative uses for urban infrastructure, encouraging a deeper appreciation of space in urban planning.

For those interested in a nuanced understanding of The Aparkment project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will reveal the layers of thought that have gone into this innovative endeavor. This analysis encourages readers to delve into the specifics of the design, examining how each aspect contributes to the overall vision and functionality of the project. Engaging with the architectural elements will provide valuable insights into contemporary approaches to urban architecture and the ongoing dialogues around sustainable living solutions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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