Architecture project // Modular Housing Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Natural Timber for Urban Resilience

Modular Housing Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Natural Timber for Urban Resilience

Authors:

francisco liano lopez, victor manuel vicente gomez, Carlos Davis Hernandez, Diego Antonio Dominguez

Crafted with interlocking modular cubes of reinforced concrete and natural timber, the design enhances urban resilience while providing affordable housing solutions tailored for dynamic community living.

5 key facts about this project

Interlocking cube modules allow for flexible housing arrangements to accommodate varying family sizes.

Reinforced concrete structures ensure durability while minimizing maintenance needs in urban settings.

Natural timber elements are incorporated for warmth and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the living environment.

Design features promote natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Shared communal spaces foster social interaction and community cohesion among residents.

General keywords

hong kong housing modular sustainable community residential affordable urban flexible insulation

Project specific keywords

modular cubes interlocking units community spaces natural ventilation reinforced concrete wood furnishings cube stacking insulation layers flexible layouts urban resilience

## Project Overview

Located in Hong Kong, a city marked by acute housing shortages and high real estate prices, the Folding Cubes project addresses the pressing needs of economically marginalized communities living in precarious conditions. The design is informed by the urban context, where overcrowding and substandard living conditions are prevalent. It aims to enhance living quality through a flexible and modular housing solution tailored to the specific needs of residents.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout features interlocking modular units, optimizing spatial organization within a limited footprint. The individual modules (BL-01, BL-02, BL-03, BL-04) are designed to maximize utility and adaptability while promoting communal living. For instance, BL-01 incorporates a compact dining-kitchen area suitable for two people, while BL-03 incorporates integrated furniture to facilitate multi-functional use. BL-04 exemplifies flexibility, accommodating up to four residents without compromising privacy. This modular design allows residents to customize their living spaces based on family dynamics and personal preferences.

### Material Selection

The materials employed prioritize sustainability and functionality. Wood makes up the furniture components, contributing warmth to the interiors, while reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural support for stacking the modules. Aluminum frames enhance durability and promote natural ventilation, critical in Hong Kong's humid subtropical climate. Plasterboard is utilized for internal walls, facilitating efficient space use and sound insulation. Additionally, polystyrene insulation addresses climate-related challenges, helping to maintain comfortable indoor environments. These material choices collectively form an architectural solution that is practical for low-income families, addressing both aesthetic and functional needs in the face of urban challenges.

### Climate Responsiveness

The design strategy incorporates an analysis of local climatic conditions, optimizing natural ventilation through strategic window placements and innovative shading techniques. This approach not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances occupant comfort by mitigating heat gain. By responding to environmental factors, the project strives to create sustainable living conditions that effectively address the challenges faced by its target community.