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Modular Living Units with Steel Frame and OSB Board Construction for Urban Resilience

Authors:
Mert ünal, Ayşenaz Erençin, Eda Nur Yaşar
Modular Living Units with Steel Frame and OSB Board Construction for Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular design with steel frames and OSB boards, this initiative adapts to urban conditions while fostering community engagement through shared living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be easily rearranged or detached to accommodate changing community needs.
02
Steel frame construction enhances durability and resilience against seismic events.
03
OSB boards are utilized for both interior partitions and thermal insulation, promoting energy efficiency.
04
Shared facilities are strategically integrated to foster social interaction among diverse residents.
05
Micro hacks allow occupants to personalize their living spaces, promoting a sense of ownership.
Micro-Hacking is an architectural design project aimed at addressing urban challenges in Türkiye. It focuses on the integration of modular living units to create adaptable spaces that foster community interaction and cater to the evolving needs of diverse populations, including those displaced by socio-economic factors. The project is characterized by its innovative approach to flexible space usage, providing a balance between individual privacy and communal engagement.

The Micro-Hacking project is designed with the intention of transforming traditional apartment layouts. Each modular living unit measures 25m², promoting efficient use of space while allowing for customization based on residents’ requirements. It includes essential communal facilities, such as kitchens and shared lounges, which are strategically placed to facilitate social ties among the inhabitants. This design approach not only optimizes living conditions but also enhances resilience within urban environments.

Unique Design Approaches

The Micro-Hacking project's uniqueness lies in its modularity and adaptability. The utilization of steel plates and grid frames enables the construction of versatile units that can be rearranged or detached as needed. This flexibility addresses the challenges of increasing urban density and allows residents to adjust their living arrangements based on fluctuating demographics or personal preferences.

Additionally, the design incorporates features known as "micro hacks," where residents can implement minor modifications to their units, leading to a sense of ownership and empowerment. This aspect challenges conventional apartment models that often impose rigid configurations on inhabitants, thereby fostering a more personal connection to their living environments.

Community Engagement and Social Functionality

The project emphasizes the importance of social architecture. By creating integrated communal spaces, Micro-Hacking aims to foster interaction among diverse groups, including students, refugees, and long-term residents. The layout encourages relationships that can enhance community cohesion in the face of urban isolation.

Moreover, the inclusion of flexible interior configurations allows for multipurpose use of space—residents can adapt their surroundings as their needs change. This adaptability is crucial in rapidly changing urban contexts, where traditional infrastructure may not meet the demands of contemporary populations.

In summary, Micro-Hacking presents an architectural solution that addresses the multifaceted issues of urban living in Türkiye. The combination of modular design, flexible living arrangements, and communal spaces reflects a thorough understanding of current socio-economic conditions. For more in-depth insight into the architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas behind Micro-Hacking, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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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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