Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Modular Living Spaces Incorporating Polystyrene Insulation and Rainwater Harvesting Systems Within Urban High-Rise Structures

Authors:
Gisu Ha, Jin Jun
Modular Living Spaces Incorporating Polystyrene Insulation and Rainwater Harvesting Systems Within Urban High-Rise Structures

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular pods with polystyrene roofing and integrated rainwater systems, this design transforms existing high-rise structures into adaptable urban living spaces that address housing shortages effectively.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular pods that attach seamlessly to existing high-rise towers.
02
Incorporates built-in rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
03
Employs polystyrene roofing to enhance thermal insulation and energy efficiency.
04
Features balcony units designed for both functional living and community interaction.
05
Adapts existing structures, minimizing the environmental impact of new construction.

### Project Overview

The "Parasitic Home" project responds to the housing crisis in South Korea, particularly within the densely populated district of Nowon-gu, Seoul. Accelerated urbanization following the Korean War has resulted in significant housing shortages, necessitating innovative architectural solutions. This initiative proposes an adaptive model for urban living by integrating modular housing units that extend pre-existing high-rise buildings. By enhancing individual living environments, this design promotes sustainability and fosters community interaction.

### Spatial Strategy and Modularity

The central concept revolves around the notion of "parasitism," where modular housing units are affixed to existing structures, effectively utilizing vertical space in urban settings while minimizing land consumption. This approach addresses the urgent need for vertical living solutions in areas with high population density and creates flexible accommodation options. Residents can personalize their living spaces, facilitating a range of configurations that cater to diverse lifestyles and requirements.

### Materiality and Sustainable Features

Constructed using a selection of modern materials, the design prioritizes both functionality and sustainability. Key materials include:

- **Polystyrene Roofing:** Offers insulation and protection against weather elements.
- **Waterproofed Polyurethane Insulation Sheets:** Enhance thermal efficiency.
- **Metal Cladding Panels:** Provide durability and low maintenance.
- **Wood Finishes:** Introduce warmth to interior spaces.
- **Glass Windows:** Optimize natural light and encourage outdoor connectivity.
- **Solar Panels:** Facilitate renewable energy generation.
- **Rainwater Harvesting System:** Supports sustainable water management.
- **Precast Concrete Elements:** Form crucial structural components of the existing buildings.

These components collectively support the project's commitment to reducing environmental impact while improving the quality of life for residents. The design emphasizes ample natural light through large windows and skylights, enhancing overall well-being within the living spaces.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy