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Integrating Steel and Glass Within a Sustainable Urban Framework

Authors:
Laia Celma Adrover, Meisam Dadfarmay
Integrating Steel and Glass Within a Sustainable Urban Framework

Project in-detail

Utilizing a steel framework and extensive glass façades, the design transforms a section of the Manhattan Bridge into a mixed-use urban space that incorporates residential units alongside sustainable communal amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates residential units within the structural framework of an active bridge.
02
Utilizes extensive glass façades for natural light and urban views.
03
Features sustainable communal areas including gardens and recreational spaces.
04
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency within the design.
05
Includes accessible pedestrian pathways promoting multi-modal transportation.

### Project Overview

Located at the Manhattan Bridge in New York City, the redevelopment initiative focuses on enhancing urban living through the integration of residential units within existing infrastructure. The project aims to revitalize the public spaces surrounding the bridge while addressing critical housing needs in one of the nation’s most densely populated areas. The design prioritizes connectivity and balance, resulting in a concept that encourages community engagement alongside functional urban transit.

### Spatial Integration and User Experience

The redevelopment facilitates a unique coexistence between residential life and active transit routes. By embedding housing units into the bridge's structure, the design promotes a blend of diverse living environments with the dynamic setting of urban transportation. The spatial organization of residential units across various levels allows for optimal use of space while providing residents with extensive views of the city skyline.

Communal amenities, including green roofs and recreational spaces, foster social interaction among residents, enhancing the quality of urban living. The design emphasizes connectivity through dedicated pedestrian pathways and bicycle access, thereby supporting diverse modes of transportation while encouraging community interaction and accessibility.

### Material Selection and Sustainable Practices

The project employs a range of materials that ensure both structural viability and aesthetic appeal. Key components include:

- **Steel**: Utilized for the structural framework, it provides strength and long-term durability.
- **Glass**: Incorporated into the facade to maximize natural light and enhance visibility, creating inviting living spaces.
- **Concrete**: Essential for foundational elements, it offers stability crucial for the transition of the bridge’s function.
- **Photovoltaic Solar Panels**: Integrated to promote renewable energy use and mitigate environmental impact.

This strategic selection not only reinforces structural integrity but also addresses contemporary sustainability challenges. The design incorporates features such as rainwater harvesting and efficient waste management systems, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility within urban settings. The innovative use of space and materials presents a model for future developments aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure.

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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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