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Metallic Portico and Elevated Ground: Modular Co-Living in Historical Rome

Authors:
Gabriel grothge Faria, Henry Farkas, Beatriz Cressoni, Carolina mescollotto Moretti
Metallic Portico and Elevated Ground: Modular Co-Living in Historical Rome

Project in-detail

The design incorporates a large metallic portico and cable-stayed modules, creating an adaptable and elevated co-living space that harmonizes with Rome's historical landscape while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
A large metallic portico acts as the structural framework for the co-living space.
02
Modules are cable-stayed to superior beams, creating a floating appearance.
03
The ground floor is elevated for privacy while ensuring accessibility.
04
Shared amenities promote social interaction among residents.
05
Minimally designed outdoor areas integrate greenery within the urban setting.

The Inside Rome co-living project is located in the heart of Rome, where history meets contemporary living. This initiative aims to take advantage of spaces in existing palazzos that are currently underused. The goal is to create modern communal living areas that encourage sustainability and social interaction while respecting the city’s rich historical backdrop. The design concept is rooted in preserving the essence of Rome while introducing a flexible structure that can adapt to the needs of urban residents.

Architecture Concept

This design emphasizes the need for a thoughtful mix of historical preservation and the demands of modern life. By adopting a modular approach, the project can fit into various contexts within the city. This adaptability allows for living spaces that are both personalized and supportive of community interaction. The layout includes private rooms alongside shared spaces, improving the overall experience for residents.



Spatial Organization

Within the building, the design carefully balances areas of privacy and shared use. Each residential unit provides a bedroom and bathroom, ensuring comfort for individuals. Shared areas, such as the kitchen and living room, encourage residents to come together. Elevating the ground floor increases accessibility while giving residents a sense of privacy from the busy street life outside.



Structural Design

A key element of the design is the large metallic portico that supports the various parts of the building. This structural feature not only adds to the aesthetic quality but also contributes to the stability of the co-living areas. The modules are suspended from superior beams using a cable-stayed technique, which gives a floating appearance. This approach helps distribute stress effectively throughout the structure.



Landscape Integration

The integration of landscaping enhances the living environment by incorporating simple flower beds around outdoor spaces. These additions improve the atmosphere and encourage social interaction among residents. The outdoor areas act as a bridge between the internal living spaces and the vibrant city life, enriching the overall urban experience in Rome.



The project represents a thoughtful interaction between modern design and historical elements. It creates a comfortable living environment that fosters community connections while respecting the cultural essence of its surroundings. The balance of openness and privacy is emphasized through careful arrangements and cohesive design details, bringing together structural and natural elements into a harmonious living space.

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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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