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Hexagonal Modules Over Railway Lines with Integrated Cavities

Authors:
Charles Ryan, Laura Ayuso, Aileen Boylan, Caroline Flynn
Hexagonal Modules Over Railway Lines with Integrated Cavities

Project in-detail

Suspended above railway lines, this design incorporates interconnected hexagonal modules with service cavities to create an adaptable living space that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended above railway lines to maximize urban space use.
02
Hexagonal modules designed for easy interconnection and customization.
03
Cavities incorporated for efficient service access and water storage.
04
Advanced 3D printing technology utilized for precise construction.
05
Community-focused design enhances social interaction among residents.

The project introduces an innovative modular home concept that offers a new way to think about living in urban environments. Located in areas where space is limited, the design allows for a home that can move with its occupants. It combines the idea of permanence with the possibility of relocation, providing flexibility in an increasingly static world. The overall concept is rooted in the inspiration drawn from natural structures, establishing a deeper connection between people and their habitats.

Design Inspiration

The design takes cues from nature, using forms and patterns found in the environment. It highlights parallels between human-made homes and the shelters created by creatures in the wild. Beehives and nests serve as key references, illustrating the strength and efficiency of hexagonal and multi-level structures. These elements focus on providing not just individual comfort but also fostering a sense of community among residents.

Modular Composition

With a modular layout, the home can easily adapt to different living situations. Individual modules can be used as standalone units or combined to create larger living spaces for families. This adaptability is important for various types of urban dwellers, from singles to larger households. The use of 3D printing technology in construction allows for precision in design and quicker production, enhancing the process of building homes.

Urban Integration

An interesting aspect of the project is its location above railway lines in urban settings, making use of previously underutilized space. This strategic choice increases housing density while preserving valuable ground area for other uses. By transforming abandoned areas into residential spaces, the design contributes to more sustainable planning in cities. Such a focus on repurposing vacant land can lead to more vibrant neighborhoods.

Functional Elements

The design includes practical features such as cavities beneath living spaces for running services and storing water. This thoughtful inclusion showcases a commitment to utilizing space efficiently while addressing real urban living challenges. Each design element serves its purpose, reinforcing the concept of a modular home that balances personal needs with collective living.

The overall vision reflects a commitment to integrating modern needs with ecological awareness, offering a glimpse into future living that supports individuality while enhancing community ties.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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