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Illuminated Gaps with Solar Panels and Plywood Enhancing Urban Space

Author:
He Xiansen
Illuminated Gaps with Solar Panels and Plywood Enhancing Urban Space

Project in-detail

Solar panels integrated into a plywood and metal structure light up urban gaps along Enning Road, enhancing community engagement and safety in a previously overlooked area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for site-specific customization.
02
Integration of solar panels enhances sustainability.
03
Plywood and metal decking provide lightweight durability.
04
Focus on lighting creates safer public spaces.
05
Strategically placed to revitalize neglected urban gaps.

The "GAP LAMP" project is located on Enning Road in Guangzhou, China. This area features a mix of historic colonial architecture and modern urban challenges. The design focuses on adding a "lamp" in the gaps created by the uneven growth of buildings. This insertion aims to improve the use of public spaces and enhance safety and vibrancy during the night. The goal is to transform neglected sections into welcoming areas that promote social interaction and local business.

Design Intervention

The project takes the existing gaps between structures and turns them into opportunities. By placing the "lamp" in these spaces, the design seeks to light up dark areas that have been overlooked. This not only increases visibility but also encourages people to spend time there. Thus, the project aims to create a lively environment on the street, even after sunset.

Modular Construction

A modular approach is an important aspect of the design of the "lamp." This means that the lamp can be built in sections and customized for each specific site. Such a method allows for quick construction and the possibility of adding more units in the future. Starting with a prototype ensures that this approach can respond to the needs of the community over time while keeping a unified look across the area.

Material Selection

Several materials are used in the construction of the "GAP LAMP." Plywood, metal decking, and self-leveling cement concrete are chosen for their practical qualities. Plywood provides flexibility in design, while metal decking offers strong support. Self-leveling cement concrete ensures a solid and even surface. Solar panels are also included, highlighting a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency.

The "GAP LAMP" combines light and function, making dark spaces more usable. It aims to encourage a sense of community and makes the area more engaging for all who pass through. The result is a thoughtful design that brings new life to the street and fosters social connection.

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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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