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Mild-Steel Framework with Cantilevered Living Spaces in Urban Setting

Authors:
Bl Manjunath, Abhijeet Manjunath, Balakrishna Pathi, Zeba Ali khan
Mild-Steel Framework with Cantilevered Living Spaces in Urban Setting

Project in-detail

A cantilevered structure composed of mild steel enhances urban living by offering compact, functional spaces designed for adaptability and privacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
A cantilevered design allows for balanced structural integrity with minimal ground contact.
02
Mild-steel framework offers flexibility in adapting to various urban settings.
03
Interior spaces incorporate warm birch plywood to enhance comfort.
04
Rooftop design accommodates solar panels and gardens for sustainability.
05
Expands vertically with modular elements to support future growth.

The Symbiote presents a thoughtful response to the issues of crowded urban living. Located in a dense urban area, it serves as a compact living unit designed for contemporary lifestyles. The concept centers around the idea of modularity, where individual spaces can be integrated into existing structures. This approach aims to make the most of limited urban space, enhancing the experience for residents.

Structural Configuration
Organized on a 3m by 2m grid, the layout consists of two main components. One part is anchored to a support structure, while the other is cantilevered, balancing the design effectively. Inside, the space is divided into three functional bays, offering areas for living, working, and sleeping. This design ensures essential amenities are included in a compact configuration while maintaining accessibility and comfort.

Material Selection
The building utilizes a mild-steel framework, which supports the structure effectively. Perforated floors add texture and visual interest to the interior. The warmth of birch plywood enhances the living experience, creating a contrast with a neutral black oxide finish. On the roof, Kadapa stone is combined with polycarbonate cladding, providing a sturdy exterior while allowing natural light to enter, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere inside.

Adaptability and Expansion
Adaptability is a key feature of the Symbiote. It can be attached to existing walls, fit into available niches, or stand alone in various settings. This flexibility allows the unit to serve different needs and locations. The design also includes a vertical staircase that connects multiple levels, offering more living space if required. The roof area is designed for sustainable features, such as solar panels and gardening, highlighting a focus on environmental responsibility.

Privacy and Spatial Relationships
Privacy is carefully considered in the Symbiote's design. It strikes a balance, allowing for personal space while encouraging community interaction. The layout promotes a feeling of safety and individuality, similar to a bird's nest, while still connecting with the broader urban surroundings. The arrangement of rooms provides a fluid connection between spaces, making it easy for occupants to move while maintaining their personal boundaries.

The interior is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing residents to personalize their space and adapt it to their lifestyle.

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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

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