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Modular Living Spaces Enhanced by 3D Printed Concrete and Recycled Materials

Author:
Marvin Bratke
Modular Living Spaces Enhanced by 3D Printed Concrete and Recycled Materials

Project in-detail

Crafted from modular components and 3D printed concrete, this design integrates adaptable living spaces with recycled materials to create an accessible community housing solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for efficient and precise construction.
02
Employs modular design to allow for customizable living configurations.
03
Integrates recycled materials to enhance sustainability and reduce waste.
04
Features communal gardens designed to promote resident interaction.
05
Incorporates smart home technology for energy management and efficiency.
Located in Austin, Texas, the "Collective Parts" architectural project exemplifies a pragmatic approach to contemporary housing needs. This design project aims to address the increasing demand for affordable and customizable housing. Utilizing modular construction techniques, the architecture incorporates advanced 3D printing technology that allows for efficient production and scalable design solutions. The ultimate goal is to create a versatile living environment that fosters community engagement while being economically viable and ecologically sustainable.

Modular and Customizable Living Spaces
The architectural strategy behind "Collective Parts" dramatically shifts traditional views on housing design. Each unit is a part of a collective whole, allowing for various configurations that cater to diverse household sizes and needs. The flexibility of the design is a distinguishing feature, as residents can reconfigure spaces to suit different life stages, from young professionals to families and retirees. This adaptability also extends to communal areas, which are thoughtfully integrated to encourage interaction among residents.

The incorporation of a "Kit of Parts" concept is a significant element of this project. This concept enables a modular approach where standardized components can be assembled in various arrangements. In doing so, the architecture supports a personalized living experience that can evolve over time, meeting the changing demands of its occupants.

Sustainability and Materiality
Material choice is critical in this project, with an emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. The primary materials include concrete, used in the 3D printing process for its durability; wood, selected for interior finishes to enhance aesthetic warmth; and glass for window elements, maximizing natural light and thermal performance. Recycled materials are incorporated wherever feasible to minimize ecological impact. Each material has been carefully evaluated to align with the overarching goal of reducing carbon footprints while maintaining functional integrity.

The design employs high-performance insulation systems, contributing to energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Moreover, smart home technology features are integrated to facilitate resource management, empowering residents to monitor and optimize their energy usage. This combination of innovation in material selection and design principles illustrates a commitment to sustainability and modern living.

Community and Social Engagement
"Collective Parts" transcends simple housing by fostering a sense of community. The architectural layout includes communal gardens and gathering spaces designed to promote interaction among residents. These shared areas are vital for enhancing the social fabric of the development and encouraging a collaborative environment. The project’s design emphasizes collective living, where shared resources and communal areas mitigate the isolation often seen in modern urban developments.

The participatory design process is another noteworthy aspect, allowing community input to shape the architectural plans early on. This engagement ensures that the resulting design resonates with the needs and desires of future occupants, further anchoring the project in its local context.

For more detailed insights into this architectural project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are invited to delve deeper into the aspects that shape "Collective Parts." Exploring the project's unique architectural ideas can provide a more comprehensive understanding of its innovative framework and functionality.
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Enter an open architecture
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Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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