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Modular Living Spaces Constructed from Shipping Containers with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Milikani Khupe, Derek Faure
Modular Living Spaces Constructed from Shipping Containers with Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed from repurposed shipping containers and enhanced with vertical gardens, this housing initiative delivers affordable and sustainable living solutions in urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from repurposed shipping containers to minimize environmental impact.
02
Vertical gardens incorporated into the design enhance aesthetics and promote local food production.
03
Designed for modular adaptability, allowing future reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
Features energy-efficient solar panels integrated into the overall structure.
05
Utilizes passive design principles for natural ventilation and light, reducing energy consumption.

The architectural design project “Hous_d” presents a pragmatic solution to the affordable housing crisis in Sydney, Australia. This project utilizes modified shipping containers as the primary structural element, thereby promoting sustainability and efficiency in construction. The design is characterized by its modularity, allowing for flexible living arrangements that can easily adapt to varying family structures and needs.

The project encapsulates the essence of community living, emphasizing social interaction through shared spaces while maintaining privacy in residential units. Functionally, “Hous_d” serves to provide affordable housing solutions while integrating eco-friendly technologies, making it a noteworthy response to urban housing challenges.

Innovative Use of Shipping Containers

What sets “Hous_d” apart from typical housing projects is its unique use of shipping containers as building modules. This approach not only lowers construction costs but also minimizes the carbon footprint associated with traditional residential development. The containers are configured in a way that maximizes available space and enhances the livability of each unit. The design incorporates communal areas such as shared kitchens and living rooms, fostering a sense of community among residents. These shared spaces ensure that social interaction is prioritized while private living areas remain intact, offering residents a balance between community and solitude.

Additionally, the integration of vertical gardens on the exterior underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of these gardens not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to local food production and ecological conservation, setting a precedent for future urban housing projects.

Detailed Spatial Configuration

The spatial planning within “Hous_d” is both practical and forward-thinking. Each unit includes two bedrooms designed specifically for family use, and the open-concept layout promotes natural light and ventilation throughout the space. The layout encourages efficient movement and flexibility for residents, allowing modifications and personalizations as needed.

Incorporating energy-efficient solutions, the project includes solar panels and insulation materials to reduce energy consumption substantially. Furthermore, the application of passive design principles facilitates comfort through strategic positioning of windows and shading devices, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

“Hous_d” serves as a prototype of how adaptable, affordable housing can be effectively integrated into urban environments while addressing community needs. The marriage of innovative architectural ideas with practical design demonstrates effective solutions to contemporary challenges in housing.

To gain insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of “Hous_d.” The project's distinctive approach to housing offers valuable lessons for future architectural endeavors in urban settings.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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