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Fire-Resistant Units with Corrugated Metal and Timber Frames for Flexible Living

Authors:
Aslı Zeynep Dogan, Canberk Kocaoglu, Ecem Kulubecioglu, Helin Bingöl
Fire-Resistant Units with Corrugated Metal and Timber Frames for Flexible Living
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Constructed with fire-resistant materials and a modular design, the units provide adaptable living spaces that cater to contemporary communal and private needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed for quick assembly and future reconfiguration.
02
Utilizes fire-resistant materials to enhance safety and durability.
03
Incorporates an interactive online platform for user-defined customization.
04
Strategically balances communal areas with private living spaces.
05
Designed for optimal thermal performance with integrated insulation systems.

The project presented under the brand DE.SET.LI.FE focuses on modular residential design that emphasizes adaptability and personalization. Situated in a context where flexible living arrangements are increasingly important, this initiative offers a solution that empowers individuals to customize their homes according to their preferences. The design integrates prefabricated units that can be quickly assembled, allowing occupants to tailor their living spaces in a way that suits contemporary lifestyles.

Design Concept

The architectural focus is on modularity, allowing for a variety of unit configurations that meet different functional needs. Service units, such as the staircase, circulation, and WC units, fulfill essential roles while improving accessibility within the overall living environment. The layout effectively balances communal areas with private spaces. This arrangement helps residents interact with one another while still enjoying their own privacy.

Materiality

Key materials enhance the structural integrity and environmental efficiency of the design. Corrugated metal sheets create a sturdy facade that is fire-resistant and recyclable. Timber frames provide solid support for the structure, ensuring durability. Fire-resistant gypsum boards contribute to safety across all areas of the building. Rockwool insulation improves the thermal performance, making the units comfortable and energy-efficient. Additionally, steel frame structures with a box profile offer necessary strength to endure diverse weather conditions.

Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability plays an important role in the project, highlighted by the inclusion of renewable energy systems and water management strategies. These features aim to reduce the environmental impact and promote efficient resource use. The modular design allows for quick assembly while also accommodating future changes in layout. This flexibility caters to the needs of a diverse and mobile population, enhancing the overall livability of the environment.

User Engagement

Residents can engage with the design through an online platform that allows them to define various aspects of their living spaces, such as location, budget, and room types. This approach encourages individuals to take an active role in shaping their homes. By allowing for personalization in the design process, the concept fosters a living experience that integrates both personal comfort and community needs.

The arrangement of common rooms alongside private bedrooms is thoughtfully designed, creating a warm atmosphere that invites social interaction while maintaining a sense of individual space.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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