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Integrating Plywood and Corrugated Metal in Affordable Urban Housing

Authors:
Stefani Thoma, Antonis Kyprianou
Integrating Plywood and Corrugated Metal in Affordable Urban Housing
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Constructed using plywood and corrugated metal, these modular cabins offer affordable housing solutions in a revitalized urban landscape filled with vacant high-rises, effectively addressing the needs of local residents and young professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular cabin layouts allow for customizable living arrangements tailored to resident needs.
02
Utilizes exterior plywood panels for improved thermal insulation and reduced environmental impact.
03
Integrates rainwater collection systems to enhance sustainability in urban settings.
04
Designed to revitalize vacant high-rise buildings into functional community spaces.
05
Features large windows for natural light and views of the Limassol waterfront.

Golden Cabins is located in Limassol, Cyprus, aiming to provide affordable housing following the end of the golden passport scheme. Many high-rise buildings in the area now stand empty, often referred to as "zombie towers." The cabins are designed to repurpose these vacant structures into functional living spaces for young professionals and local residents. The overall concept emphasizes modularity and flexibility, allowing each cabin to fit the diverse needs of its occupants while harmonizing with the surrounding urban environment.

Modularity and Flexibility

The design takes a modular approach, breaking each cabin into five key functional areas: bathing, storing, cooking, living, and sleeping. This division allows efficient use of space and provides the opportunity for residents to customize their arrangements. The flexibility fosters a sense of community and encourages interaction among occupants. People can choose layouts that suit their lifestyles, making the cabins adaptable to varying living situations.

Integration with Urban Landscape

Golden Cabins integrates with the urban landscape, using the existing vacant buildings to create a revitalized area for community living. By addressing housing shortages, the project actively contributes to the city’s regeneration. The design connects to the local context, transforming empty buildings into homes. This response is practical, enhancing the quality of life in the area.

Sustainable Material Selection

The project emphasizes sustainability through careful material choice. Exterior plywood panels serve as a renewable and environmentally friendly option. They provide thermal and acoustic insulation, helping to maintain comfortable indoor environments. These panels also meet low formaldehyde emissions requirements, promoting healthier living spaces. Additionally, the use of corrugated metal roofing boosts energy efficiency and improves the overall performance of the cabins.

Unique Design Features

Attention to detail is evident in the design of each cabin. Adjustable foundations and rainwater collection systems enhance functionality and sustainability. Windows are thoughtfully positioned to allow natural light to flow in and offer views of the waterfront. Such features not only improve living conditions but also establish connections to the environment, enriching the overall experience for residents.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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