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Galvanized Steel Structures with Hexagonal Layouts for Urban Living

Authors:
Mariana katherine Cortes lopez, Angie vanessa Milian gaviria, Maria alejandra Carvajal garcia, Jhordan enrique Garnica martinez
Galvanized Steel Structures with Hexagonal Layouts for Urban Living

Project in-detail

A hexagonal layout formed by galvanized steel structures integrates communal living with enhanced connectivity in Brent, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in London.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal layout enhances spatial efficiency and promotes natural light access.
02
Galvanized steel profiles provide structural durability and flexibility.
03
Three pedestrian bridges connect the site to surrounding amenities.
04
Landscaped buffers reduce noise and improve air quality for residents.
05
Two distinct housing typologies cater to varying family sizes and needs.

The project is located in Brent, London, and addresses the important concerns of housing affordability and community connections in a densely populated area. The goal is to create living spaces that respond to the rising demand for affordable housing while encouraging social interaction among residents. The design concept is centered around modular structures that adapt to the needs of diverse households, with a focus on fostering a sense of belonging within the urban context.

Urban Context

Set between the A406 (North Circular Road) and the M1, the site faces issues related to traffic and pedestrian safety. The design includes three footbridges that improve access to surrounding shops and parks, promoting ease of movement for residents. This design seeks to breathe new life into underused areas, connecting them to the larger community.

Spatial Organization

The layout features a hexagonal shape that incorporates key local landmarks like a church, nature reserve, and shopping center. This thoughtful organization boosts natural light and airflow in every unit, while also helping people navigate the area more easily. The arrangement is practical and blends well with existing urban surroundings, creating a welcoming space for pedestrians.

Residential Typologies

Housing is categorized into two distinct types to meet various living situations. Typology 1 is designed for two occupants with a two-level layout that combines shared and private spaces. Typology 2 supports three occupants, offering three levels and a mix of communal and private areas. This approach allows for flexibility in accommodating different family sizes and preferences.

Design Details

The use of galvanized steel metal profiles enhances the durability of the structures. Mezzanine slabs secured with metal profiles help maximize the living space, making areas multifunctional. Landscaped buffers are included to minimize noise and air pollution, adding greenery to the environment. These elements come together to create a balanced living experience in an urban setting, emphasizing both functionality and quality of life for residents.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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