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Geopolymer Concrete and Red Brick Adaptation for Mixed-Income Sustainable Housing

Authors:
Rujnumporn Keskasemsook, Nuttachat Kosintranont, Warittha Leelasestaporn, Sira Temjai
Geopolymer Concrete and Red Brick Adaptation for Mixed-Income Sustainable Housing

Project in-detail

Geopolymer concrete and traditional red brick form the foundation of a thoughtfully adapted terrace housing project that promotes community engagement and sustainability through innovative infill design for mixed-income residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geopolymer concrete contributes to reduced environmental impact through innovative material usage.
02
Traditional red brick preserves the historical context of Sydney's architecture while enhancing durability.
03
Infill units are strategically designed to harmonize with the existing terrace houses without compromising aesthetics.
04
Community gardens provide shared green spaces, fostering social interactions among residents.
05
Rooftop designs incorporate stormwater management systems, promoting sustainability and ecological responsibility.
The project "NIMBY - Neighbourhood in My Backyard" focuses on the redevelopment of terrace houses and laneways in Sydney, Australia. It aims to blend historical architecture with contemporary living needs, creating a neighborhood that encourages community engagement and sustainable urban practices. Through the renovation and adaptation of existing structures, this architectural design addresses the challenge of urban density while preserving the cultural significance of the area.

The project's primary function is to provide affordable housing while enhancing the sense of community among residents. By integrating modern amenities into traditional terrace houses, the design fosters livability and connectivity. The layout encourages pedestrian circulation through redesigned laneways, promoting active lifestyles and social interactions.

The architectural design includes the following important elements:

1. **Terrace House Adaptation**: Traditional terrace houses maintain their core characteristics, ensuring historical elements are preserved. However, modern renovations enhance their functionality, allowing families of varying sizes to reside comfortably.

2. **Infill Development**: New infill units are strategically placed between existing properties to maximize space utilization without obstructing the city’s historical streetscape. These additions are carefully designed to harmonize with the existing architecture.

3. **Material Choices**: A balanced selection of materials contributes to the project’s sustainability goals. Red brick retains the heritage aesthetic, while corrugated metal provides durability. Timber is used for interior finishes, offering warmth, and 3D printed geopolymer concrete supports innovative construction methods that reduce the environmental impact.

4. **Community Spaces**: The project integrates shared green spaces and communal gardens, which serve as gathering areas for residents. These elements promote social cohesion and enhance the urban landscape.

Innovative design approaches set this project apart from other developments. The adaptive reuse strategy not only respects the historical integrity of terrace houses but also addresses the modern requirement for increased housing density. The integration of 3D printing technology for construction represents a forward-thinking method that streamlines building processes, minimizes waste, and maximizes the efficiency of materials used.

Lastly, the project’s focus on mixed-income housing ensures inclusivity and diversity within the community. By offering housing options that cater to different income levels, it fosters a more integrated neighborhood, encouraging interaction among residents from various backgrounds.

For further insights into the architectural design, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas that showcase the depth of this design initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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