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Modular Living Spaces Featuring Bamboo Construction and Steel Framework in Urban Setting

Authors:
Davide Saramin, Giacomo Murador
Modular Living Spaces Featuring Bamboo Construction and Steel Framework in Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Employing a modular design of interlocking bamboo and steel components, the project addresses urban density challenges by creating adaptable living spaces that promote community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be easily reconfigured to accommodate changing family sizes.
02
Constructed primarily from locally sourced bamboo to enhance sustainability.
03
Interlocking steel framework increases structural integrity while minimizing material use.
04
Design includes communal outdoor spaces designed for interaction among residents.
05
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategically placed openings throughout the structure.

The Tetris Houses project is an innovative architectural endeavor situated in the urban environment of Hong Kong. This residential design employs a modular approach to address the challenges associated with high-density living. By maximizing limited space, the project effectively creates adaptable living units that can accommodate varying population needs while promoting community interaction.

Modularity and Adaptability

A defining characteristic of Tetris Houses is its modular design concept, inspired by the game Tetris, which symbolizes the ability to efficiently fit units together in a limited space. Each residential module acts as a "pixel," allowing for flexibility in configuration based on the occupants’ specific requirements. This adaptable architecture enables families or individuals to adjust their living spaces over time, reflecting changes in household dynamics without undertaking significant renovations. This approach sets Tetris Houses apart from conventional high-rise developments by prioritizing personal choice and responsiveness to residents’ lifestyles.

Community-Centric Features

The architectural design integrates communal spaces that encourage social interaction among residents. Shared gardens, recreation areas, and common amenities foster a sense of community, counteracting the isolation often experienced in high-density living. The layout ensures ease of access to these communal facilities, promoting engagement and collaboration among neighbors. This focus on community-oriented spaces distinguishes Tetris Houses from other residential projects that may prioritize individual units over collective well-being.

Sustainable Materiality and Construction

The Tetris Houses project incorporates sustainable materials such as steel, bamboo, glass, and wood. Steel serves as the primary structural component, enabling durability and recyclability in the construction process. Bamboo, known for its environmental benefits, is utilized extensively in both structural and finish applications. Large glass openings enhance natural light in the interior spaces, while wood accents add warmth and comfort. The employment of dry construction techniques contributes to reduced environmental impact and construction timelines, making the project a responsible choice in an urban setting.

The architectural plans reveal a thoughtful balance between private and public spaces, with careful consideration given to ventilation and light across all units. Architectural sections illustrate the modular configurations and emphasize the project's adaptability to evolving needs.

This exploration of Tetris Houses invites further investigation into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that define this project. For those interested in practical and innovative solutions to urban housing, delving deeper into this architectural endeavor offers valuable insights into modern approaches to living in dense metropolitan areas.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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