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Modular Living with Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Energy Solutions

Authors:
Walter Hughes, Maria Ines Morato
Modular Living with Reinforced Concrete and Sustainable Energy Solutions
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With a focus on reinforced concrete and an innovative rainwater harvesting system, this modular home design prioritizes sustainability and flexibility, catering to contemporary residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy expansion and customization based on homeowner needs.
02
Integrated rainwater harvesting system enhances resource efficiency.
03
Solar energy system supports reduced energy costs and promotes sustainability.
04
Natural ventilation strategy improves indoor air quality and comfort.
05
Adaptable stacking options cater to various urban contexts and site conditions.

The modular home concept emphasizes adaptability and personalization, addressing the diverse needs of modern living. Situated in an urban environment, it blends functionality with the idea of community. The design encompasses a dynamic approach to home life, encouraging residents to shape their spaces according to individual preferences while also fostering connections among neighbors.

Modular Structure

The design unfolds in three structured phases. It begins with a reinforced concrete slab that acts as the solid foundation. This base includes structural columns that will support the upper module, ensuring the stability of the whole structure. After establishing the groundwork, the lower-level module is placed, creating an initial living space ripe for customization. Finally, the addition of the upper-level module opens up possibilities for future growth and expansion.

Sustainable Systems

Sustainability is a key focus throughout the design. A rainwater harvesting system is integrated, allowing water to be collected from the roof and channeled through gutters into storage barrels. This practice not only enhances efficiency but encourages resource conservation. Additionally, the project includes a solar energy system with photovoltaic panels that capture sunlight. These panels convert light into usable electricity, while any surplus energy can be returned to the grid.

Ventilation Strategy

Natural ventilation plays an important role in maintaining comfort and air quality inside the home. The design employs a strategy where wind is used to draw cool air into the shaded lower area of the module. This process allows warmer air to escape from the upper sections. As a result, the need for mechanical cooling is lessened, promoting energy efficiency and overall comfort for the residents.

Flexible Typologies

The modular nature of the design allows for a variety of stacking options, creating flexibility in housing arrangements. These can range from single-family units to multistory structures that can accommodate three to five stories. Such adaptability means the design can effectively cater to different urban landscapes and diverse community dynamics.

Overall, the emphasis on modularity, sustainability, and personal choice results in a living environment that meets the demands of today’s households while remaining grounded in practical architectural solutions. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces allows for both individual comfort and collective interactions, which are essential in modern life.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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