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Modular Homes with Recycled Steel and Native Plant Landscaping Along Urban Riverfront

Modular Homes with Recycled Steel and Native Plant Landscaping Along Urban Riverfront
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Constructed with modular units of recycled steel and complemented by native landscaping, the design revitalizes an underutilized urban riverfront, serving as a sustainable solution for affordable housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units utilize recycled steel for enhanced sustainability and cost-efficiency.
02
Innovative bridges connect communities while promoting pedestrian and cyclist access.
03
Native landscaping integrates with the riverfront ecosystem, supporting local biodiversity.
04
Smart lighting systems are incorporated for energy efficiency and public safety.
05
The design prioritizes climate-responsive features to mitigate urban heat effects.

### Overview
The project "LA Riviera" addresses the urgent need for affordable housing within Los Angeles, specifically targeting the concrete banks of the Los Angeles River from the East Fourth Street Bridge to the L Street Viaduct. This initiative is designed to mitigate housing shortages while fostering environmental sustainability and enhancing community engagement through thoughtful architectural practices.

### Spatial Strategy and Connectivity
The proposed design incorporates modular residential units arranged in a stacked configuration, optimizing land use and economic feasibility. Integral to this plan are the bridges that span the Los Angeles River, serving as crucial connections between neighborhoods and enhancing traffic flow. These structures promote accessibility to nearby services and resources, contributing to an integrated urban fabric that emphasizes pedestrian and cyclist mobility.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A diverse selection of materials reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability, prioritizing local resources and eco-friendly options. Recycled steel is utilized for structural components to minimize the environmental impact, while lightweight concrete is chosen for its durability and thermal efficiency. High-performance glazing elements enhance natural light while improving energy efficiency, and natural stone accents are incorporated to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. Additionally, green roof systems are integrated for effective stormwater management and to enhance local biodiversity.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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