Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Hexagonal Living Units Featuring Prefabricated Steel and Modular Design for Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Andrea Sichi, Sara Orlando, Beatrice Paludi
Hexagonal Living Units Featuring Prefabricated Steel and Modular Design for Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Hexagonal living units constructed with prefabricated steel and modular components provide a flexible, sustainable housing solution within the urban landscape of Paris.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal unit configuration enhances spatial efficiency and community interaction.
02
Prefabricated construction reduces site disruption and expedites occupancy.
03
Integrated vertical gardens improve biodiversity and outdoor access for residents.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance thermal performance and sustainability.
05
Modular design allows for future expansions tailored to individual needs.
The "Incremental Living" architectural project is an innovative housing solution designed for dense urban environments, specifically addressing the housing challenges in Paris. This project exemplifies a modular approach to architecture, allowing residents to adapt their living spaces according to individual needs. By prioritizing affordability and sustainability, it responds effectively to the demands of urbanization while integrating seamlessly into the existing city fabric.

The design features a series of prefabricated modules that can be constructed incrementally. This approach aims to alleviate the financial burden on residents by allowing them to occupy smaller units initially and expand as necessary. The project's layout is characterized by flexible spaces that promote both private living and community interaction, featuring a combination of residential units, communal areas, and flexible public spaces. The hexagonal grid layout optimizes land use while providing a functional arrangement for various activities within the structure.

Innovative Design Approaches

A standout feature of this project is its emphasis on adaptability. The incremental housing model allows units to be added or modified over time, shifting the traditional notion of fixed architecture to a more dynamic form. This adaptability is not just structural; it also extends to the integration of green technologies, such as photovoltaic cells and rainwater collection systems, enhancing energy efficiency and promoting environmental stewardship.

The organization of spaces within the development incorporates both private and communal elements. Public areas such as gardens, co-working spaces, and meeting rooms encourage social engagement among residents, fostering a sense of community. The design intentionally incorporates cross-ventilation strategies, ensuring natural airflow and improved indoor air quality while minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The materiality of the project plays a crucial role in its design. The use of steel frameworks ensures structural integrity while allowing for expansive openings that enhance daylight penetration. Concrete panels are utilized for durability and thermal insulation, with careful consideration given to sustainability in material selection.

The construction method emphasizes prefabrication, allowing for efficient assembly and minimizing disruption to the urban environment during the building process. This technique not only expedites development timelines but also reduces construction waste and environmental impact.

In summary, "Incremental Living" redefines urban housing through its modular design, innovative use of materials, and focus on adaptability. Its approach ensures that it meets the unique demands of modern urban living while simultaneously enhancing community engagement. For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. The architectural ideas embedded in this project provide valuable insights into contemporary approaches to housing within dense urban contexts.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,363 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy