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Iron-Clad Modularity with Integrated Greenery for Urban Living

Authors:
Giuliana Bello, Fernanda Hardt, Guilherme Takahashi
Iron-Clad Modularity with Integrated Greenery for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from modular iron units, this urban solution integrates magnet assembly and green facades to create adaptable housing that promotes community and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from modular iron units that enable easy reconfiguration.
02
Utilizes a magnet assembly system for efficient on-site installation.
03
Incorporates green facades and kitchen gardens to enhance urban ecology.
04
Adaptable to various site conditions, accommodating diverse urban environments.
05
Emphasizes community interaction through flexible living arrangements.

The Hive is a thoughtful response to the urban environment of New York City, highlighting the city’s diverse cultural landscape. Designed with an emphasis on adaptability, the project focuses on creating living spaces that serve not just individual needs but also promote connections among residents. Each component functions as part of a larger whole, fostering a sense of community.

Modular Design

At the heart of the concept is a modular unit that allows for various configurations depending on the specific characteristics of urban sites. This flexibility accommodates different building shapes and sizes. It creates numerous arrangements to address the complex housing challenges in the city. Residents can customize their living environments, making it a more personalized experience that encourages a connection with neighbors.

Construction Methodology

The assembly process for The Hive utilizes a straightforward approach. Each unit connects to others through fittings at each corner. A system of magnets secures these connections, making assembly more efficient. This method enhances the overall adaptability of units, allowing for quick transport and on-site configuration. Despite their individual characteristics, these units work together to maintain structural integrity.

Material Considerations

Iron is an essential material in the construction of the units. It provides strength to the overall framework while supporting the modular design. Each unit can stand alone and provide support for others as they are stacked. The result is a continually evolving structure that aligns with the dynamic nature of urban life.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is woven into the design through features like rainwater harvesting, electricity generation, and wind energy use. This approach addresses the growing need for environmentally responsible living spaces. In addition, the potential for integrating kitchen gardens and green facades adds to the ecological benefits. These elements not only enhance the residential experience but also contribute to biodiversity and a greater connection to nature.

The inclusion of greenery enriches both the visual appeal and performance of the project. It gives residents a chance to engage with their environment, fostering a lifestyle that values both community and sustainability.

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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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