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Hexagonal Units Enhancing Natural Light in Compact Living Spaces

Authors:
Ozan Özvatan, Betül Çevik, Ayşe Dila Demirgil, Ekrem Kaynar
Hexagonal Units Enhancing Natural Light in Compact Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing hexagonal units to maximize natural light and promote ventilation, the design offers compact living solutions that foster community engagement in a high-density urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hexagonal unit design to optimize natural light and airflow.
02
Integrates shared communal areas to encourage social interaction among residents.
03
Adapts to high-density living needs with flexible space configurations.
04
Focuses on ecological sustainability in its approach to urban housing.
05
Implements vertical cores for efficient distribution of essential services.

HIVE.HONGKONG looks to solve the challenges brought on by rapid urban growth in one of the most crowded cities in the world. Located in Hong Kong, the project provides small living spaces designed for a rising urban population. The focus is on creating homes that are compact, flexible, and environmentally friendly. This approach not only accommodates individual needs but also encourages a sense of community among residents.

Structure and Space Utilization

The design organizes functions efficiently through the use of vertical cores. These cores provide necessary services such as moving between floors and basic sanitation. By simplifying the layout, the project maximizes the use of available space. The various types of living units can reach up to 100 m² in total area, ensuring that each home benefits from natural light and fresh air, which are important for a pleasant living experience.

Geometric Form and Environmental Integration

A notable feature is the hexagonal shape of the units. This design choice increases the surface area of the facade, allowing more sunlight to enter each space. It helps with airflow, supporting passive cooling and reducing the need for air conditioning. Windows are placed to create a good connection between the interior and the outside environment, making the spaces feel more open and connected to nature.

Community and Social Interaction

Another key aspect of HIVE.HONGKONG is the inclusion of shared spaces. These common areas are important for fostering relationships among residents. People often feel isolated in high-density housing, but communal spaces help to bring individuals together. The design encourages a balance between personal living areas and shared facilities, improving overall well-being in the community.

Materials and Sustainable Practices

While the presentation does not specify materials, the overall design shows a commitment to sustainability. This focus suggests that materials chosen will minimize environmental impact and enhance the functionality of living spaces. By combining practical needs with aesthetics, the project aims to create a welcoming environment in the city.

The thoughtful arrangement of communal gardens and rooftop patios adds to the living experience. These spaces allow residents to engage with nature, providing areas for relaxation and recreation while contributing to the urban ecosystem.

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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

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