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Modular Housing Crafted With Bamboo Cladding and OSB for Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
YUSER ALMUTAWA, Yasmeen Alkandari, - -, b -, - -
Modular Housing Crafted With Bamboo Cladding and OSB for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from bamboo cladding and supported by a modular steel framework, this residential building in Kowloon enhances communal living through adaptable spaces and efficient cross-ventilation strategies.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a modular layout to allow future reconfiguration of living spaces.
02
Incorporates extensive green roofs to enhance biodiversity and reduce urban heat.
03
Features a steel frame to support structural flexibility in a dense urban environment.
04
Utilizes passive cooling techniques through strategic window placement and shaded areas.
05
Integrates communal gardens to foster social interactions among residents.
The JRB-Jenga Residence is a residential architectural project designed to address urban living challenges in Kowloon, Hong Kong. This design focuses on enhancing space efficiency, sustainability, and community interaction. Emphasizing a modular approach inspired by the game Jenga, the residence consists of stacked structural forms that create a visually cohesive yet dynamic façade, reflecting the building's innovative spatial organization.

The primary function of the JRB-Jenga Residence is to provide diverse housing options while fostering communal relationships among residents. It combines various flat configurations, including studios and duplexes, to cater to different lifestyles. By integrating communal spaces such as gardens, a café, and multipurpose rooms, the design encourages social engagement and enhances the overall living experience.

Sustainability plays a pivotal role in the project's design philosophy. The use of a steel frame system allows for structural flexibility and durability while maximizing the building’s lifespan in a high-density environment. Materials such as Oriented Strand Board (OSB) for insulation, bamboo and aluminum cladding for exterior finishes, and energy-efficient glazing reflect the commitment to environmental stewardship. This choice of materials not only reduces the carbon footprint but also ensures that the building responds effectively to the subtropical climate.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of the JRB-Jenga Residence is the integration of natural ventilation strategies. The building features open atria and large operable windows that facilitate cross-ventilation, promoting indoor air quality and minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. This design approach enhances comfort for residents while reducing energy consumption.

Another distinct feature is the building's modular construction technique, which permits the easy reconfiguration of interior spaces. This adaptability allows the residence to cater to changing demographics and resident needs over time, showcasing an innovative response to urban saturation. The modular units can be arranged in various forms to suit community requirements, enhancing the functionality of the space.

Architectural Details and Community Focus

The design prioritizes public access and interaction through communal green spaces and shared facilities. These areas are strategically positioned within the building to encourage social activities and foster a sense of community. By emphasizing these shared spaces, the design mitigates the isolation often experienced in urban dwellings.

The architectural plans demonstrate careful consideration for privacy and noise control. The orientation of private units, combined with the spatial arrangement of communal areas, ensures that residents can enjoy both personal retreats and vibrant social interactions. Architectural sections reveal the building's effective layering of spaces, allowing for diverse experiences while maintaining structural integrity.

The JRB-Jenga Residence sets a precedent for urban architecture, demonstrating how residential designs can meet the pressing demands of modern living without compromising environmental responsibility or community values. To gain deeper insights into this project, please explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas presented in the project documentation.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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