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Highway Housing Integrating Steel and Concrete with Natural Greenery for Urban Living

Authors:
Desmond Delanty, 辰瀚 (Chenhan) 蒋 (Jiang), 莹 (Ying) 薛 (Xue)
Highway Housing Integrating Steel and Concrete with Natural Greenery for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Built atop existing highway structures, the integration of concrete and steel with expansive greenery provides affordable living spaces designed to enhance urban connectivity and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes existing highway structures to create new housing solutions.
02
Integrates extensive greenery into living spaces for improved air quality.
03
Features modular design elements for flexible housing configurations.
04
Incorporates dedicated cycling pathways to promote alternative transportation.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategic placement of glass facades.
The architectural project in Hong Kong integrates residential housing within existing highway structures, addressing the city's high population density and limited land availability. This initiative aims to create affordable living spaces without compromising the functionality of the urban landscape. The design involves utilizing existing infrastructure as a foundation for new housing, representing a progressive approach to urban development.

The project encompasses two typologies: the Single Column Structure and the Double Column Structure. The Single Column Structure features a streamlined design, where individual housing units are supported by a single load-bearing column. This setup reduces the footprint and preserves open space beneath the highway, facilitating pedestrian and cyclist access. Units are designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency. In contrast, the Double Column Structure provides a more robust configuration, employing a pair of load-bearing columns that improve structural stability. This design accommodates various highway configurations while allowing greater flexibility in layout and spatial organization.

Unique Design Approaches

This project stands out for its innovative integration of housing with transportation infrastructure. By creating residential units that coexist with highway structures, it promotes efficient land use in a challenging urban environment. The incorporation of green spaces within and around the units enhances the ecological footprint and supports urban biodiversity. Vegetative elements are strategically positioned to improve air quality and manage stormwater runoff, aligning with sustainable design practices.

Additionally, the project prioritizes community connectivity by incorporating dedicated cycling pathways. This focus on alternative transportation options encourages a healthier lifestyle and fosters social interactions among residents. The design reflects an understanding of the needs of urban dwellers, promoting a balance between density and livability.

Material Selection

The use of durable materials such as concrete and steel provides the necessary strength and stability for the housing units. Transparent glass facades allow for natural light penetration while offering visual connections between the inside and outside. This thoughtful selection of materials contributes to the overall sustainability of the project.

In summary, the architectural project exemplifies a fresh approach to urban housing in Hong Kong, merging infrastructure with residential needs. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain comprehensive insights into this innovative undertaking.
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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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