Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

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

Flexible Living Spaces With Scrim Panels and Steel Framework Facilitating Community Interaction

Authors:
Elise Dusenshine, Thomas Ciano
Flexible Living Spaces With Scrim Panels and Steel Framework Facilitating Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular scaffolding system and transparent scrim panels, the design fosters dynamic community living by providing adaptable spaces that encourage social interaction within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular scaffolding allows for continuous adaptability of living spaces.
02
Scrim panels create a balance between privacy and transparency.
03
Integrated greenery enhances both aesthetics and environmental performance.
04
Shared communal areas promote social interaction and community engagement.
05
The project revitalizes a historic hospital site while preserving its cultural context.
The architectural project "Grid It Up" revitalizes the abandoned Hospital of San Giacomo situated near Piazza del Popolo in Rome, Italy. This project focuses on modular living solutions, emphasizing flexibility and community engagement. Its primary aim is to adapt to varying social and economic conditions by offering customizable living spaces that cater to diverse lifestyles. The integration of robust design elements allows for a seamless interaction between individual needs and communal dynamics, providing a model for contemporary urban living.

Innovative Adaptability and Modular Design

One of the standout features of "Grid It Up" is its modular scaffolding system, which supports flexible configurations. This design approach allows residents to modify their living spaces according to their unique circumstances, promoting longevity in housing arrangements. The ability to adjust unit sizes and layouts caters to changing family dynamics, setting it apart from traditional static housing solutions. By incorporating a structural framework that encourages continuous adaptation, the project enhances user experience while responding to unpredictable living conditions.

The collaboration between private and communal spaces further differentiates "Grid It Up" from typical residential architectural designs. The inclusion of shared facilities, such as communal kitchens and lounges, fosters social interaction among residents. These public areas are thoughtfully designed to bridge personal privacy with opportunities for community engagement, a critical consideration in densely populated urban environments. The use of scrim panels allows for a balance between visual connectivity and privacy, enhancing the project's social architecture.

Sustainability and Biophilic Design Elements

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the project, integrated through both design choices and material selections. The architectural approach features significant use of glass walls that maximize natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and contributing to energy efficiency. Incorporating green roofs and landscaping throughout the facades further supports environmental considerations, improving insulation and enhancing the overall aesthetic quality of the living environment.

The project's design incorporates a biophilic approach, focusing on a strong connection to nature, which is essential in urban settings. The integration of greenery into living spaces promotes mental well-being and fosters a healthier lifestyle for residents. By promoting outdoor gardening and landscaping elements, "Grid It Up" encourages ecological awareness and sustainable practices within the community.

For further exploration of the architectural design, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and innovative architectural ideas, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the full project presentation. This offers a comprehensive understanding of the design principles and unique features that distinguish "Grid It Up" in the realm of 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 17,495 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