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Modular Housing Powered by Solar Energy and Crafted from Recycled Materials

Modular Housing Powered by Solar Energy and Crafted from Recycled Materials
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Constructed with recycled materials and powered by solar energy, this modular housing solution enhances urban living by integrating community spaces and promoting sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates vertical gardens to improve air quality and biodiversity.
04
Modular units allow for flexible living arrangements tailored to user needs.
05
Utilizes solar panels for energy efficiency and reduces reliance on municipal power.

### Project Overview
"Breathing in the In-Between Space" is an architectural initiative located in the Sichuan North Road neighborhood of Shanghai, aimed at addressing contemporary urban challenges. The project focuses on integrating environmentally sustainable housing solutions within existing urban frameworks, promoting community enhancement while prioritizing economic and ecological viability.

### Spatial Planning Strategy
The spatial strategy emphasizes the integration of private living units with communal areas. Through innovative spatial diagrams, the design articulates the interaction between public and private spaces, including transitional zones intended to foster social engagement. Living units are characterized by modularity, allowing flexibility in arrangements. Adjustable furnishings and telescopic units enhance spatial efficiency, adapting to the varying needs of residents. Community areas are purposefully designed to facilitate interaction while maintaining the aesthetic harmony of the neighborhood.

### Sustainable Materiality
The project employs a range of sustainable materials that reinforce its environmental objectives. Key materials include:

- **KingSpan Quadcore KS Flat** for superior insulation and structural integrity.
- **Recycled Telescopic Metal Frames** providing durability and sustainability in the structure's support system.
- **Silk Plaster** offering eco-friendliness and acoustic benefits for interior surfaces.
- **Cork Flooring** enhancing thermal comfort and sound insulation.
- **Recycled WPC Decking** extending usable outdoor space.

Additionally, ecological features such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and vertical greening strategies contribute to the sustainability ethos by promoting energy efficiency and enhancing urban biodiversity.

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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

`
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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

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

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