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Interlocking Units With Stone Cladding and Native Plant Integration in Flexible Urban Housing

Author:
Jose Luis
Interlocking Units With Stone Cladding and Native Plant Integration in Flexible Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Interlocking units of modular design incorporate stone cladding and native plant elements to create adaptable urban housing focused on community engagement and environmental integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interlocking modular units enable flexible reconfiguration for diverse family structures.
02
Integration of native plants throughout common areas enhances local biodiversity.
03
Cross-ventilation systems improve indoor air quality and reduce energy usage.
04
Stone cladding provides thermal mass, optimizing temperature regulation.
05
Communal spaces are strategically placed to foster social interaction and community cohesion.
The Urban Tetris is an architectural project designed to provide adaptable housing solutions within densely populated urban environments. This design prioritizes modularity and community engagement, addressing the increasing demand for diverse living spaces. By focusing on flexibility and connectivity, the project promotes social interaction among residents while ensuring a harmonious relationship with the urban landscape.

The architecture integrates various unit types catering to singles, couples, and families. The arrangement of these units follows an interlocking pattern, allowing for efficient use of space while creating communal areas that foster connection. The design emphasizes accessibility, featuring ground-level communal spaces intended for various activities, thereby enhancing the overall neighborhood experience.

Unique Modularity and Community Focus

What sets The Urban Tetris apart from conventional housing projects is its emphasis on modularity. Each unit is designed for easy adaptation to the occupants' changing needs. The flexible layouts accommodate different family structures without extensive renovations. This adaptability is vital in environments where demographic shifts are frequent.

Additionally, the project incorporates multiple green spaces, both on rooftops and within communal areas. The integration of native plants not only enhances the aesthetic quality but also contributes to environmental sustainability. This biophilic approach supports the well-being of residents by encouraging interaction with nature, a key aspect often overlooked in typical urban designs.

Architectural Organization and Materiality

The architectural organization prioritizes efficiency and clarity throughout the design. The ground floor is dedicated to multifunctional communal areas that connect various residential units, thus encouraging social interaction among residents. The use of reinforced concrete for structural elements ensures stability, while glass façades provide transparency and allow for ample natural light.

The material palette is intentional, featuring stone cladding as a tactile contrast to smooth concrete surfaces. Metal elements add modernity and durability to the design. The thoughtful selection of materials contributes to both the project's visual language and its environmental performance.

To explore further details about this innovative project, including architectural plans, sections, and ideas, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide comprehensive insights into the architectural design and its implications for urban living.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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