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Green Roofs and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Community Living in a Sustainable Urban Design

Authors:
Antoni Bielicki, Lachlan Mitchell
Green Roofs and Reinforced Concrete Elevate Community Living in a Sustainable Urban Design

Project in-detail

Reinforced concrete forms a robust foundation while expansive glass panels invite natural light into the communal spaces, all atop lush green roofs designed to enrich urban living in a cooperative residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes reinforced concrete to create a robust and durable structure that supports diverse living spaces.
02
Incorporates expansive glass panels to maximize natural light and blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.
03
Features green roofs designed to enhance biodiversity and promote sustainable urban living.
04
Integrates movable partitions within units, allowing residents to customize their living spaces according to their needs.
05
Includes strategically placed communal areas that encourage spontaneous social interactions among residents.
The architectural project known as "The Ramp" presents a thoughtful and cohesive vision that reflects contemporary approaches to urban living. The design entails a residential complex that integrates individual living units with shared communal spaces, fostering a sense of community while maintaining personal privacy. This project represents an important shift in architectural thinking, emphasizing the need for spaces that not only serve practical functions but also enhance social interaction among residents.

Functionally, "The Ramp" is designed to accommodate various living arrangements and cater to diverse lifestyles. The layout incorporates a series of interconnected units that allow residents to engage with both their living spaces and each other. The use of ramps throughout the design contributes to a fluid navigational experience, making mobility intuitive and accessible. By prioritizing accessibility, the project fosters inclusivity, ensuring that all residents can engage with the space fully.

Key elements of the project include the strategic organization of living units, which are designed to maximize natural light and ventilation while preserving sight lines that promote a sense of openness. The internal arrangement of the units allows for adaptability, with movable partitions enabling residents to modify their environments to fit changing needs. This flexibility is an essential aspect of modern architecture, addressing the desire for personalized living spaces that can evolve over time.

The materiality of "The Ramp" plays a significant role in its architectural expression. The primary structure is composed of reinforced concrete, providing the necessary durability and stability while allowing for an aesthetic interaction with other materials. Expansive glass panels are incorporated into the design, inviting daylight into the interiors and thereby enhancing the quality of living environments. The inclusion of metal cladding offers contrast to the concrete and glass, while timber finishes contribute warmth and a sense of balance. The thoughtful use of these materials not only enhances visual appeal but also supports sustainable practices, as many of the chosen materials can be sourced locally or are renewable.

One of the unique design approaches found in "The Ramp" is its commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. The project features green roofs, which help mitigate urban heat and promote biodiversity, while also enhancing the visual quality of the surrounding space. Furthermore, the integration of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems demonstrates a proactive approach to energy efficiency and resource management, making the building more self-sufficient.

The communal spaces within "The Ramp" are carefully designed to cultivate social interaction. These areas are strategically positioned to encourage residents to gather and engage with one another. The thoughtful incorporation of landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic value of the project but also contributes to a micro-ecosystem that benefits both the residents and the local environment.

This project stands as a contemporary example of how architecture can respond to the needs of urban populations. It does not merely focus on aesthetic considerations but addresses practical issues such as community cohesion and environmental stewardship. The design reflects an understanding of the complexities of modern life, where building connections with neighbors and preserving personal space are both essential.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and more detailed architectural designs and ideas that shaped "The Ramp," readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation. Understanding how these elements interconnect can provide a richer appreciation of the project’s approach to modern living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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