Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Floating Capsules of Glass and Steel Surrounded by Community Gardens

Author:
Polina Boldyreva
Floating Capsules of Glass and Steel Surrounded by Community Gardens

Project in-detail

Floating glass and steel capsules with lush community gardens redefine urban living by creating adaptable shared spaces that integrate housing, work, and leisure within a sustainable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique modular system of interlocking capsules that allows for flexible living arrangements.
02
Incorporates floating structures that enhance outdoor communal spaces within an urban context.
03
Integrates renewable energy sources, including solar panels, into the building's design for sustainable energy use.
04
Features extensive use of glass facades to maximize natural light and connection to the surrounding environment.
05
Includes community gardens that promote urban agriculture and facilitate social interaction among residents.
This architectural project is an innovative exploration of urban living that seamlessly integrates residential, commercial, and communal spaces into a cohesive structure, situated in the vibrant city of Moscow, Russia. The design embodies a modern take on the concept of modular living, employing a series of interlocking capsules that promote flexibility and adaptability in urban environments. These capsules serve multiple functions, accommodating diverse lifestyles while emphasizing efficiency and connectivity.

At its core, this project represents the evolution of urban architecture by challenging traditional high-rise typologies. The design is articulated through a modular system consisting of varying capsule sizes—large, medium, and small—that adaptively respond to the needs of their inhabitants. The large capsules serve as expansive homes, the medium capsules offer workspaces, and the small capsules cater to smaller living units or communal activities. This hierarchical arrangement enables a vibrant community to flourish under one roof while ensuring that the architecture is responsive to user dynamics.

One of the notable aspects of this architectural endeavor is its structural form, which features a hexagonal grid composition. This geometric framework is complemented by circular-shaped capsules interspersed throughout, creating an engaging aesthetic that reflects both organic growth and a structured approach to urban living. The thoughtful arrangement facilitates optimal natural light access and efficient airflow, while the strategic positioning of the capsules enhances the interaction between private and communal spaces.

Vertical connectivity is another key consideration in this project. The design incorporates a central elevator and stair core that effectively interlinks all capsule types, maximizing the accessibility of the multiple levels. This design choice also minimizes the building’s footprint, a critical factor in densely populated urban settings. Moreover, protruding floating features create opportunities for outdoor terraces and communal gardens, which not only enhance the beauty of the structure but also contribute to the overall well-being of its residents.

Materially, the project embraces sustainability without compromising on modern aesthetics. The extensive use of glass in the façades allows for abundant natural light, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments while providing expansive views of the surrounding urban landscape. The incorporation of high-strength steel in the building's framework ensures robustness and durability, while the choice of lightweight fabric-like materials offers flexibility and encourages dynamic interior arrangements.

This project further distinguishes itself through its commitment to sustainability and community engagement. By integrating renewable energy sources, including solar panels and garden spaces for food production, it addresses the environmental challenges of contemporary urban living. The use of green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems contribute to the ecological footprint, making the design not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.

The adaptability of the modular capsule system facilitates real-time reconfiguration of spaces based on inhabitant needs. This concept is vital in modern architecture as it fosters a lifestyle that can evolve with changing demands. The successful integration of living, working, and leisure spaces within a single environment underscores the project's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its users.

This architectural design project exemplifies a thoughtful response to the complexities of urban life, merging function with contemporary design principles. Its unique approach and dedication to creating an adaptable, sustainable community environment reflect the potential of architecture to address both individual and collective needs. For those interested in understanding the nuances of this innovative design, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas presented in detail will provide a comprehensive perspective on its execution and potential impact on urban living.
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