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Modular Living Spaces With Green Roofs and Natural Metal Finishes Over Urban Infill

Authors:
Marcela Sarroca, Elvira Lopez, Maria jose Cayon
Modular Living Spaces With Green Roofs and Natural Metal Finishes Over Urban Infill

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular units and green roofs, the design integrates metal and timber elements above existing structures to enhance urban living with affordable residential options.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes air space above existing buildings for housing expansion.
02
Incorporates extensive green roofs to promote biodiversity and sustainability.
03
Features a modular design allowing for various unit configurations.
04
Constructed with durable metal frames for structural efficiency.
05
Integrates public terraces to enhance community interaction and connectivity.
The "London Air" project is an architectural design that addresses the housing shortage in London by utilizing air space above existing buildings. It presents a modular housing solution that harmonizes with the city’s diverse urban fabric. This project emphasizes volume and density by vertically stacking units, which enables more efficient land use without expanding the building footprint at ground level.

The primary function of the project is to provide flexible and affordable housing options within London’s densely populated environment. By leveraging the underutilized air rights, the design maximizes residential capacity while maintaining connections to essential urban services and infrastructure. This innovative approach allows for diverse living arrangements, catering to varied demographics from single occupants to families.

What sets this project apart from traditional housing developments is its modular design and the integration of green living spaces. The project features building blocks that allow for multiple configurations, providing adaptability to specific site conditions and resident needs. Each unit is equipped with private terraces and green roofs that contribute to ecological diversity while promoting resident interaction with outdoor environments. The building materials, such as metal frames for structural integrity and glass facades for transparency, ensure a seamless visual connection with the surrounding architecture.

The project incorporates eco-friendly elements that align with contemporary sustainability goals. The use of low-impact materials, combined with green terraces and planter systems, enhances urban biodiversity and supports the local ecosystem. Furthermore, passive solar heating and natural ventilation strategies reduce energy consumption and increase the overall efficiency of the living spaces.

For additional insights into "London Air," readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this project. Diving deeper into its architectural ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative features and design strategies that define this urban housing solution.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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