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Modular Living Spaces with Steel Framework and Timber Cladding Designing Community Integration

Authors:
Tom Vincent, Gina Andreou, Manuel Urbina, Ben Hawkins
Modular Living Spaces with Steel Framework and Timber Cladding Designing Community Integration

Project in-detail

The pixelated design of stacked modular units, constructed with a steel framework and adorned with timber cladding, creates adaptable living spaces that foster community interaction in a high-density urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be easily reconfigured to adapt to changing resident needs.
02
The design incorporates communal areas that promote social interaction among residents.
03
A steel framework provides structural support while maximizing air circulation.
04
Timber cladding enhances aesthetic appeal and improves insulation properties.
05
The project emphasizes vertical living to optimize land use in a dense urban setting.
The architectural design project titled "The Grid" represents a forward-thinking response to the housing challenges in Hong Kong. It focuses on creating modular housing solutions that maximize limited space in a high-density urban environment. The project consists of a series of interconnected living units designed within a grid layout, promoting both individual privacy and communal interaction. The core function of "The Grid" is to provide affordable, flexible living quarters while fostering a sense of community among residents.

One of the standout features of "The Grid" is its modular design, which utilizes a skeletal steel framework to optimize land use. The project consists of individual housing units that can be easily adapted or reconfigured to meet varying resident needs. Each unit within the grid is designed with dimensions of 10m by 10m, allowing efficient stacking and arrangement that preserves open space and encourages circulation. This design methodology not only addresses housing shortages but also facilitates a dynamic urban lifestyle.

Additionally, the architecture emphasizes social connectivity through the design of communal areas strategically placed throughout the structure. These spaces are intended for resident interaction and activities, breaking down barriers typical of densely populated living. The thoughtful integration of public and private zones reflects a crucial understanding of the importance of community in urban living.

The material choice in "The Grid" further enhances its appeal. Steel serves as the primary structural material, providing the strength required for vertical expansion while allowing for open air flow essential in the humid Hong Kong climate. Timber is utilized for cladding and finishes, introducing warmth and a solid aesthetic. The combined use of materials like timber slated panels and tiled interior finishes results in homes that are not only functional but also inviting.

Another unique aspect of "The Grid" is its approach to sustainability. The design promotes the use of green spaces, emphasizing ecological integration within the urban landscape. Residents benefit from access to areas that encourage outdoor activities, enhancing the quality of urban living while reducing the heat island effect common in metropolitan areas.

The project incorporates efficient construction methods through prefabrication, allowing for reduced timelines and minimal disruption to the urban context. This approach reflects a growing trend in architecture that prioritizes sustainability and community-oriented designs.

For a comprehensive understanding of "The Grid," readers are encouraged to review architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas associated with this project. These elements provide deeper insights into the layout, materiality, and innovative solutions that characterize this architectural endeavor. Exploring these details will shed light on how this project addresses the multifaceted challenges of urban living in a densely populated environment.
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MICROHOME
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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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