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Hexagonal Living Units Crafted From Sustainable Materials Promoting Community Interaction in Urban Housing

Authors:
DI ZHAN, CHUYANG ZHOU, AIJIE XIONG
Hexagonal Living Units Crafted From Sustainable Materials Promoting Community Interaction in Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Crafted from hexagonal modular units and enhanced with transparent façades, the design fosters community interaction while optimizing urban living through sustainable materials and flexible spaces for social housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with hexagonal modular units to optimize space and light.
02
Incorporates transparent façades to blur the lines between private and public areas.
03
Features a community garden integrated within the residential complex.
04
Utilizes sustainable materials, including recycled components and green roofs.
05
Promotes vertical circulation with accessible open staircases connecting communal spaces.
The architectural project presents a thoughtful reimagining of social housing situated in the densely populated urban environment of Hong Kong. The design embodies the concept of community living, striving to enhance social interaction among residents while addressing the unique challenges posed by high-density living. This project reflects a keen understanding of the urban context, where land scarcity and high real estate prices have often compromised community dynamics.

At its core, the design prioritizes the creation of a spaces that foster both private and communal experiences. Through a modular vertical structure composed of hexagonal living units, the project seeks to promote a sense of belonging while optimizing the use of limited urban space. Each unit serves as an independent living space, yet the overall configuration encourages interaction and connectivity among residents. This focus on fostering relationships culminates in the project’s central theme, aptly illustrated by the title "My Roof, Your Room, Our Garden."

Functionally, the project is designed to accommodate a diverse range of residents, offering various unit configurations that cater to individuals and families alike. From compact sleeping pods ideal for single occupants to spacious two-bedroom units suitable for small families, the design maximizes functionality within the constraints of urban living. The choice of materials, which includes durable concrete for structural integrity, glass for transparency and light, and sustainable elements, provides an enduring yet aesthetically pleasing environment that encourages engagement within the community.

An important aspect of this architectural design is its integration of communal spaces. The project features gathering areas, a community library, and a community garden, creating environments where residents can connect, share experiences, and partake in communal activities. These public areas are thoughtfully interspersed throughout the structure, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends individual living quarters. This unique design approach regarding the creation of shared amenities stands out as a significant aspect of the project, enhancing community spirit and interaction.

The accessibility and circulation within the project further exemplify innovative design techniques. The incorporation of open staircases and elevator systems promotes easy movement between levels, ensuring that all residents can navigate the building with minimal barriers. The vertical arrangement of units and communal spaces allows for efficient use of the site, while the hexagonal design not only optimizes light exposure but also allows natural airflow throughout the structure. The transparency of the façade encourages a visual connection to the surroundings, supporting a relationship with the urban landscape and inviting interaction from the community.

In its essence, this project serves as a model for how architecture can respond effectively to the demands of urban living while fostering a sense of community. It scales the intimate elements of social interactions by integrating thoughtful designs and functional spaces that encourage both privacy and engagement. By rethinking the conventional approaches to social housing, this project exemplifies a progressive view of what future residential communities could look like.

For those interested in learning more about the design processes and architectural ideas that underpin this project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs can provide valuable insight. Engaging with these elements will deepen the understanding of how this project not only meets housing needs but also redefines community living in a complex urban landscape. Encouragement is extended to delve into these facets for a more comprehensive appreciation of this architectural endeavor.
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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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