Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Elevated Modular Living With Prefabricated Concrete and Flexible Community Spaces in Rome

Authors:
Kelvin Kong, Shun ming King
Elevated Modular Living With Prefabricated Concrete and Flexible Community Spaces in Rome

Project in-detail

Elevated above the Tiber River, this modular community seamlessly integrates prefabricated concrete construction with adaptable living spaces, fostering a unique blend of personal privacy and communal engagement in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design incorporating a floating structure above the Tiber River.
02
Integration of prefabricated concrete elements for efficient construction.
03
Flexible layouts that accommodate diverse family sizes and living arrangements.
04
Community-focused amenities including performance spaces and parks.
05
Use of non-toxic materials enhancing indoor air quality and sustainability.
The Circuit Board Homes project is a thoughtfully designed architectural initiative situated in Rome, aimed at addressing the pressing need for affordable and flexible housing solutions in urban environments. With a focus on community-driven living, the project represents an innovative approach to contemporary residential design, where individual units function harmoniously within a shared framework. The concept draws inspiration from the functional elements of printed circuit boards, symbolizing connectivity and interdependence—key principles that underpin the notion of communal living.

At its core, the Circuit Board Homes project serves as a paradigm for co-living spaces, facilitating both privacy and social interaction among residents. This dual function is central to the project's design philosophy. Each residence is configured to allow personal autonomy while promoting communal engagement through shared amenities. The overall design encourages a sense of belonging and fosters connections among neighbors, which is increasingly vital in today’s urban context.

The architectural design integrates prefabricated concrete modules elevated on pilings, allowing the structure to float slightly above the ground. This approach not only maximizes the potential use of space but also minimizes the impact on local ecosystems, preserving the natural flow of the Tiber River beneath the homes. The use of raised structures reflects a thoughtful consideration of environmental factors while enhancing the aesthetic quality of the project.

In terms of materiality, the project employs a variety of sustainable components to support its ecological goals. Prefabricated concrete provides a sturdy foundation and walls, streamlining construction while reducing waste. Modular decking offers flexibility in design and ease of assembly, encouraging customization and responsiveness to residents' needs. Low-toxicity plastic laminate is utilized for interior partitioning, ensuring a safe and comfortable atmosphere within each unit, while glass panels are strategically placed to invite natural light and foster visual links to the surrounding environment.

The Circuit Board Homes project’s community features are integral to its design, intentionally crafted to enhance social cohesion. Dedicated outdoor spaces such as community parks and performance plazas create venues for recreation and gathering, allowing residents to engage in shared activities that build strong relationships. Additionally, jogging trails and terraces further promote an active lifestyle, enhancing the appeal of the neighborhood.

Adaptability is a hallmark of the design, with various residential layouts available to suit different family sizes and communal living situations. This flexibility is reflective of current housing trends, where individuals seek diverse arrangements that go beyond traditional household structures. The organization of shared spaces—including kitchens and living areas—facilitates daily interactions while respecting the need for personal retreat.

Unique design approaches characterize the Circuit Board Homes project, distinguishing it from conventional housing developments. This innovation is evident in the integration of public and private spaces, which encourages spontaneous socialization while maintaining residents' privacy. The layout promotes circulation paths that connect shared amenities with individual residences, facilitating easy movement throughout the community.

Overall, the Circuit Board Homes project illustrates a thoughtful response to the complexities of urban living, balancing individual needs with a collective spirit. By prioritizing sustainability, community connection, and adaptability, this architectural endeavor presents a forward-looking vision for residential living in Rome. For a more comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the Circuit Board Homes initiative, delving into the details that make this project a noteworthy contribution to contemporary architecture.
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 16544 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