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Micro-Parks and Modular Housing in a Fractal Urban Environment

Authors:
Sam Maloney, Steven Prestejohn, Rita Doummar, Michelle Morsicato
Micro-Parks and Modular Housing in a Fractal Urban Environment
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Utilizing a fractal urban model, the development integrates modular housing with micro-parks and community spaces, fostering affordable living in a responsive coastal urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fractal urban model allows for organic growth and adaptation.
02
Modular housing units are prefabricated for efficient assembly.
03
Community spaces are designed to foster social interaction among residents.
04
Micro-parks provide accessible green areas within the urban fabric.
05
Cooperative housing model ensures affordability through nonprofit involvement.

The design concept addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in coastal urban areas that are rapidly expanding. Using a framework called Fractal Urbanism, the approach allows the urban environment to adjust and grow over time. By blending residential units with community and public spaces, the plan aims to create a lively and connected atmosphere that serves the needs of diverse populations.

Fractal Urbanism as a Design Principle
At the core of the design are distinct elements known as "pixels," which include residential units, community spaces, public areas, adaptable interiors, co-working spaces, wellness studios, balconies, shared laundry facilities, community gardens, and retail spaces. This varied mix is designed to improve the quality of life in urban areas, accommodating a range of activities and addressing the needs of different groups while encouraging social interactions.

Economic Efficiency in Construction
Economic considerations play a significant role in this approach, focusing on effective construction and logistics. Prefabricated units are set to be built and transported at lower costs compared to traditional methods. Utilizing existing infrastructures, such as piers that can be modified for shipping, allows for quick assembly of modular components. This efficiency promotes timely connections to vital utilities.

Cooperative Housing Model
A cooperative housing model is central to maintaining affordability for residents. By allowing municipalities to transfer land to experienced nonprofit groups, a land trust system can be established to support housing stability. Tenants may buy shares or pay membership fees, with the nonprofit offering important subsidies. This model encourages collective ownership while fostering community ties and investment in the local environment.

The design also focuses on combining public and private spaces to enhance social interactions. Features like micro-parks, community gardens, and co-working spaces are incorporated to create inviting areas that promote engagement among residents. The layout leads to a carefully arranged environment where living, working, and socializing become part of a cohesive urban experience, enriching daily life for all who inhabit it.

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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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Competition organisers

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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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