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Modular Living Spaces in Steel and Rockwool for Flexible Urban Families

Modular Living Spaces in Steel and Rockwool for Flexible Urban Families
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Utilizing a modular framework of cold-formed steel and Rockwool insulation, this design offers adaptable living spaces tailored for urban families seeking flexibility and cost-efficiency in their homes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design that allows for easy expansion without significant construction disruption.
02
Incorporates cold-formed steel as the primary structural material for enhanced durability.
03
Employs Rockwool insulation, promoting energy efficiency and sound attenuation.
04
Features a strategically oriented layout to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
05
Designed with pre-fabricated components, reducing onsite construction time and labor costs.

## Analytical Report on the B2A “Build to Add On” Architectural Design Project

### Overview
Located in Dubai, the B2A "Build to Add On" project is a contemporary residential design focused on flexibility and adaptability to meet evolving family needs while being mindful of budget constraints. The intent of this project is to facilitate long-term affordability through a modular construction approach that allows for incremental growth without significant upfront investment.

### Spatial Configuration and Modularity
The architectural design incorporates six hexagonal modules, providing a foundational layout composed of essential communal and private spaces. This modular framework is engineered to support future expansions, enabling families to adapt their living space as their requirements change. The orientation of the structure maximizes natural light and strategically addresses privacy concerns, optimizing both functionality and comfort.

The implementation of Volumetric Modular construction allows for approximately 95% of the building components to be prefabricated, thereby enhancing construction efficiency and performance. This approach enables families to expand both horizontally and vertically, with provisions for built-in versatility in foundational systems and vertical circulation.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
A diverse palette of materials has been chosen to ensure structural resilience and aesthetic coherence. Key materials include:

- **Structural elements:** Cold-formed steel
- **Floor slab:** Lightweight screed
- **Tiling:** Thin ceramic and porcelain (3-6 mm)
- **External walls:** EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) with Rockwool insulation
- **Internal walls:** GWB (Gypsum Wall Board) with plaster and silk paint finish
- **Floor finishes:** 1200 x 600 mm porcelain tiles
- **Ceiling:** GWB with a 3000 mm clear height
- **Window systems:** Ultra-slim aluminum profiles with energy-efficient glazing (u-value 1.4 W/m²K)

These material choices not only enhance the project's modern aesthetic but also contribute to its sustainability by ensuring high performance while minimizing environmental impact.

### Contextual Integration and Future-Readiness
The site measures 15 meters in width and 30 meters in length, with road access that facilitates convenient vehicular movement. The longitudinal orientation of the residence enhances connectivity with the outdoor environment while adhering to local zoning regulations regarding setbacks and open spaces.

Designed for future growth, the structure incorporates flexible architectural features, such as easily removable modules. The design considers future expansions while maintaining the integrity of the existing layout, exemplified by the strategic planning for areas like the carport canopy, which can be modified to accommodate additional living spaces without compromising the overall performance of the building.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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