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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
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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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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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