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Modular Brick Structures Enhanced by Photovoltaic Integration in Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Natalia Kopeikina, Nataliia Shkedova, Olesia Polaguta
Modular Brick Structures Enhanced by Photovoltaic Integration in Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing a system of modular brick construction and integrated photovoltaic technology, this urban housing solution offers flexible living environments designed for community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a shared equity model to enhance affordability for residents.
02
Incorporates modular brick systems for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
03
Features integrated photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Design includes communal courtyards to promote social interaction.
05
Employs recycled materials to reduce environmental impact throughout construction.

### Overview

Located in the urban context of New York City, the project addresses the complexities of modern housing by introducing a customizable living model. It aims to meet the evolving needs of individuals and families by providing adaptable spaces that reflect a shift from conventional static living arrangements to dynamic, personalized solutions. The initiative emphasizes financial accessibility through a hybrid ownership model, enabling gradual investment in homes while promoting community engagement and collaboration among residents.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design employs a modular approach, allowing flexibility in the spatial arrangements. Key features include:

- **Multi-Functional Living and Working Spaces:** Designed to accommodate both residential and small business needs, these units integrate work and living areas to enhance the day-to-day experience of users.
- **Shared Courtyards:** These communal spaces serve as focal points for social interaction, fostering community ties and enhancing the living environment.
- **Strategically Designed Neighborhoods:** The layout encourages interactions between residential and commercial elements, improving accessibility and integration within the urban fabric.

Attention to outdoor spaces is reflected in the inclusion of parks and communal areas, which contribute to the well-being of residents.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project places a strong emphasis on sustainable practices through its material choices, which include:

- **Recycled Materials:** Utilizing materials that minimize environmental impact ensures the construction adheres to eco-friendly standards.
- **Modular Brick Systems:** These systems facilitate easy reconfiguration of living units, supporting adaptability to various housing needs.
- **Integrated Renewable Energy Solutions:** Photovoltaic systems contribute to energy sustainability.
- **Water-Efficient Fixtures:** Low-flow systems are incorporated to promote conservation.
- **Sustainable Insulation:** The selection of insulation materials enhances energy efficiency across different climates.

These choices not only support a commitment to sustainability but also encourage innovation in construction methodologies.

### Financial Accessibility and Community Engagement

The financial model is structured around shared equity, allowing for a lower initial investment, thus encouraging participation from a broader demographic. This model ensures economic considerations do not dictate resident choices, fostering a diverse community.

Furthermore, a digital platform enables residents to articulate their housing needs, facilitating a crowd-sourced design process that enhances alignment with community aspirations. This approach underlines the project's commitment to merging physical and social housing needs while allowing for personal and communal growth within the urban setting.

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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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