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Modular Living Spaces Crafted with Recycled Materials and Traditional Tong Lau Features

Authors:
Mert Kalkan, Zehra Çetİnkaya, Esra Baran, Selma KÜÇÜker
Modular Living Spaces Crafted with Recycled Materials and Traditional Tong Lau Features
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Utilizing a modular system of recycled materials and incorporating traditional Tong Lau characteristics, the design fosters community interaction while addressing the need for sustainable housing in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a prefabricated modular system for rapid on-site assembly.
02
Incorporates traditional Tong Lau architecture to maintain cultural relevance.
03
Features a public ground floor designed to enhance community interaction.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Integrates high-performance insulation materials for energy efficiency.

## Overview

The Hong Kong Pixel Homes project was developed as part of a competition focused on addressing housing challenges in Hong Kong's densely populated urban environment. The design aims to maximize utility within limited living space while considering the cultural and architectural context, particularly the traditional Tong Lau style prevalent in the region from the mid-19th to mid-20th century.

### Spatial Configuration

The design includes two distinct building typologies: attached and detached. The attached buildings feature a ground floor designed as a public passageway, which enhances community connectivity. In contrast, the detached buildings allow for individual living spaces while fostering social interaction through common areas that are strategically placed. This configuration reflects a modular design philosophy, facilitating adaptability to various family sizes and individual preferences without necessitating significant structural alterations.

### Sustainability and Material Choices

The material selection is integral to both the visual identity and function of the buildings. Primary materials include concrete for structural stability, glass to optimize natural light and ventilation, and recycled materials to minimize environmental impact. High-performance insulation materials contribute to energy efficiency. The project employs a prefabricated construction system, utilizing wall and floor modules that simplify assembly and reduce construction time and costs. Each wall module is 1.20 m wide, 2.40 m high, and 0.15 m thick, while the floor modules share the same dimensions. Additional sustainability features include rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and the use of materials that offer air purification properties, demonstrating a commitment to addressing urban pollution effectively.

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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.

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