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Glass and Concrete Climbing Walls Enhance Urban Living in Multi-Use Housing

Author:
Misa Sawairi
Glass and Concrete Climbing Walls Enhance Urban Living in Multi-Use Housing

Project in-detail

Integrating bouldering walls into a glass and concrete structure redefines urban living by promoting active lifestyles within a flexible multi-use housing development.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates indoor bouldering walls directly within residential units.
02
Extensive use of large glass panels maximizes natural light and visual connections.
03
The project features modular living spaces adaptable for various demographic needs.
04
Vibrant color schemes enhance community interaction and livability.
05
Compact design eliminates traditional staircases, promoting climbing routes instead.
The project is an innovative architectural design known as the "Fries House," situated within the urban landscape of New York City. It represents a thoughtful response to the challenges of urban living by integrating fitness and community engagement into residential spaces. This architecture is not merely a building but a conceptual platform aiming to redefine how residents interact with their living environment, emphasizing an active lifestyle and communal living.

Functionally, the "Fries House" serves as a multi-purpose dwelling, prioritizing both residential needs and recreational activities. The design promotes well-being through unique features, such as indoor bouldering walls. These walls are not only elements of design but facilitate physical fitness, allowing residents to engage in climbing activities within the comfort of their homes. The apartments are designed to cater to varying demographics, featuring adaptable unit sizes that comfortably accommodate individuals, couples, and families.

Attention to detail is evident in various aspects of the project. The building’s structure employs concrete as the primary material, providing robustness and longevity, while large glass windows dominate the façade, enhancing natural light infiltration and fostering a sense of openness. This transparency encourages interaction between occupants and the surrounding urban fabric, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside.

Another noteworthy aspect is the strategic use of a vibrant color palette throughout the design, incorporating shades of yellow and other pastels. This choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages a sense of community among residents. The interiors are organized to maximize usability, with living spaces designed around an open plan layout that promotes social interaction and flexibility.

A unique design approach taken in the "Fries House" is the seamless integration of bouldering walls into the residential layout. This features a departure from standard architectural practices that often segregate fitness from home life. By embedding physical activities into the living space, the “Fries House” supports a shift in lifestyle, fostering health and well-being as intrinsic components of daily life.

Moreover, the project demonstrates a commitment to affordable urban living by optimizing space. By avoiding traditional staircases in favor of climbing routes, the design not only saves space but also offers an innovative solution to conventional design challenges in urban dwellings. This design principle echoes throughout the structure, ensuring that every square foot serves a purpose, enhancing utility, and livability.

Overall, the "Fries House" functions as a testament to thoughtful urban design that harmonizes residential living with active lifestyles. This project resonates with those looking to promote wellness through their living environment. It invites readers to delve into the project presentation to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas that encapsulate this unique architectural vision. By examining these elements, readers can gain a deeper insight into how the "Fries House" reinterprets urban living and positions itself as a model for future architectural endeavors.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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