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Hydrophonic Greenery Within Aluminium-Framed Social Spaces

Authors:
Pooventhiran P sangar, Tuang Hui meng
Hydrophonic Greenery Within Aluminium-Framed Social Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating hydrophonic systems and aluminium-framed structures, the initiative revitalizes Kuala Lumpur's back alleys into engaging social spaces that foster community interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes aluminium frame louvers for effective ventilation and shading.
02
Incorporates hydrophonic systems to promote urban agriculture.
03
Features micro homes designed for affordability and accessibility.
04
Transforms neglected back alleys into vibrant community marketplaces.
05
Maximizes natural light through strategically placed skylights.

Kampung Alley is an initiative aimed at revitalizing the urban space of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Located in a city characterized by rapid development, the project seeks to turn neglected back alleys into lively social areas. Its primary goal is to address issues such as high living costs and lower quality of life, particularly for younger residents. The design emphasizes affordability and community engagement while celebrating the rich cultural identity present in the area.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is the idea of increasing livability through the creative use of underutilized spaces. Kampung Alley focuses on restoring the local community's sense of belonging by creating affordable micro homes for the younger population. This approach not only encourages social interaction but also strengthens the connection residents have to their surroundings.

Spatial Elements

Key features of the design include aluminium frame louvers, which enhance ventilation and provide shade while allowing natural light to enter the interior spaces. Skylights are strategically placed throughout the site to maximize daylight, creating bright and welcoming environments that invite social gatherings. The inclusion of a metal deck roof ensures durability, making it suitable for a variety of community events.

Sustainability Features

The project demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through the introduction of hydrophonic systems. These systems allow residents to grow food in an urban setting, promoting self-sufficiency and improving access to fresh produce. By incorporating greenery into the urban context, it enhances the overall ecological balance and contributes to a healthier living environment.

Cultural Integration

The design pays careful attention to the integration of cultural elements with modern living. By establishing marketplaces within the alleyways, Kampung Alley supports local businesses and encourages the continuation of traditional practices that are crucial to Kuala Lumpur's identity. This blending of cultural heritage with contemporary needs fosters a vibrant community atmosphere.

The thoughtful arrangement of functional and social spaces results in an environment where residents can connect, thrive, and engage with their cultural roots. This approach enriches the urban experience in Kuala Lumpur, making it more inclusive and reflective of the community's diverse history.

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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
competition now

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