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Elevated Steel Trusses and Glass Façade Integrate Residential Units Above Urban Thoroughfare

Authors:
Kim Yejin , Hyeseok Kim
Elevated Steel Trusses and Glass Façade Integrate Residential Units Above Urban Thoroughfare

Project in-detail

Elevated steel trusses support a glass façade that houses efficient residential units above a busy urban intersection, integrating living space with essential public infrastructure.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated residential units are constructed using steel trusses, allowing for unobstructed views and natural light.
02
The project integrates commercial spaces on the ground floor to enhance community engagement.
03
A distinct red-painted steel aesthetic provides a visual landmark within the urban landscape.
04
Landscaping elements are incorporated into the design to promote ecological sustainability and enhance user experience.
05
Natural ventilation strategies are embedded, reducing dependency on mechanical climate control systems.
The Urban Alberge is an architectural project designed for lodging in an urban context located at the Kaywon University intersection in Pangyo-dong, Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. This project establishes a multi-functional space that serves as a residence and enhances public connectivity. It provides a solution to the housing demands of a vibrant urban population while facilitating interactions among diverse user demographics, including students, travelers, and residents.

The design features a strategically elevated residential unit positioned above a major thoroughfare, effectively creating a bridge between various urban zones. By utilizing this vertical approach, the project integrates living spaces with public infrastructure, counteracting the limitations often posed by urban overpasses and busy streets. The architectural structure emphasizes both functionality and accessibility, enhancing the urban experience for all users.

Innovative Structural and Material Solutions

The design of the Urban Alberge employs a combination of concrete, steel, and glass to create a visually appealing and structurally sound environment. Concrete serves as the primary material for foundational and structural components, providing durability essential for urban architecture. Steel trusses, characterized by their bold red color, are utilized to reinforce the building while adding a distinctive visual element. The extensive use of glass in the building's facade promotes natural light, offering panoramic views and reinforcing a sense of connection to the surrounding environment.

The project incorporates two residential unit types: Type A for single-person households and Type B for two-person households. This modular approach maximizes space efficiency and caters to urban dwellers' varying needs. The ground floor is dedicated to commercial activity and public spaces, encouraging interaction and fostering community engagement among users.

Integration of Urban Landscapes

A notable aspect of the Urban Alberge is its thoughtful integration of landscape elements within the architectural design. Greenery is incorporated into the project to create a pleasant user experience and reduce the urban heat island effect. Landscaping elements, such as soil and various plant species, are utilized to soften the urban environment, promoting ecological sustainability.

The design also prioritizes natural ventilation and efficient energy use. Orientation considerations and airflow strategies are embedded in the project to ensure that it meets contemporary standards for sustainability.

The Urban Alberge stands as a pertinent example of architectural design that addresses the complexities of urban living. It offers insightful solutions to accommodation in city settings, emphasizing connectivity, sustainability, and community engagement. For further exploration of its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, interested readers are encouraged to access the complete project presentation for an in-depth analysis.
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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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