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Modular Housing Crafted with Prefabricated Concrete and Natural Wood Elements Focused on Community Interaction

Author:
Alejandro Orbe
Modular Housing Crafted with Prefabricated Concrete and Natural Wood Elements Focused on Community Interaction

Project in-detail

Crafted from prefabricated concrete and natural wood, this modular housing development prioritizes communal interaction through thoughtfully designed shared spaces, addressing the urgent need for affordable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular housing units are arranged around central voids to enhance community engagement.
02
The design incorporates sustainable materials, including prefabricated concrete and natural wood elements.
03
Large glass windows maximize natural light while promoting energy efficiency.
04
Staggered staircases serve both functional circulation and as visual focal points in the façade.
05
Outdoor spaces, including balconies, extend the living areas and encourage outdoor interaction.
The Diagonal Las Vegas project is a thoughtfully designed affordable housing initiative located in an urban context characterized by medium-density developments. This project addresses the need for affordable living spaces while fostering a sense of community among residents. It represents a comprehensive approach to urban housing that integrates sustainability and social interaction into its architecture.

The architectural layout consists of modular housing units arranged around central voids that serve as shared spaces. These voids not only enhance the building's functionality but also create opportunities for residents to engage with one another. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, ensuring that each unit benefits from these essential elements.

Community-Centric Design Approaches

What distinguishes this project from other similar initiatives is its community-centric design approach. By incorporating shared spaces within the residential scheme, the building facilitates social interaction among its occupants. This layout contrasts with traditional housing designs, where privacy often supersedes community engagement. The strategically placed voids promote a sense of belonging, enabling residents to gather and participate in communal activities.

The modular design of the housing units allows for flexibility, catering to different family structures and lifestyles. Each unit features outdoor areas, such as balconies, that extend living spaces beyond the interior, emphasizing the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. This attention to outdoor space is particularly relevant in the Las Vegas climate, where residents can benefit from an amenable outdoor living experience.

Sustainable Material Choices and Architectural Elements

The materiality of the Diagonal Las Vegas project further underlines its commitment to sustainability. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing durability and longevity. Large glass windows enhance natural light penetration within the units, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Steel components, particularly in staircases and railings, contribute to a modern aesthetic and structural efficiency. Additionally, wood is utilized for decking and interior finishes, introducing warmth to the living spaces.

Key architectural elements include staggered staircases that not only facilitate vertical circulation but also add visual interest to the façade. This design fosters an open atmosphere, inviting residents to traverse the building in a manner that encourages exploration and interaction.

For those interested in deeper insights into the Diagonal Las Vegas project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural designs will provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project effectively combines functionality with social interaction. Key architectural ideas are evident throughout the design, highlighting a methodical approach to creating affordable housing that meets contemporary needs.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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