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Modular Living with Shared Pathways and Private Gardens

Authors:
Bianca Alexandra Gavrila, George Stanescu, Emilia Stanescu, Teodora Anda Capra-Robescu
Modular Living with Shared Pathways and Private Gardens

Project in-detail

Comprising flexible modules arranged along a shared pathway, the design combines private gardens with communal spaces to enhance social interaction and support contemporary living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible living configurations tailored to individual needs.
02
Shared pathways promote community interaction and easy access between homes.
03
Private gardens enhance personal outdoor spaces while encouraging social engagement.
04
Design supports future densification, allowing for adaptable growth of the neighborhood.
05
Orientation emphasizes natural light and views, improving the quality of living spaces.

The design explores the relationship between community living and personal space within the context of contemporary Chinese society. Located in an area that reflects traditional living patterns, the residential neighborhood combines modular features that allow for a flexible approach to housing. The aim is to create an environment where residents can find their own living preferences while still engaging with their neighbors.

Modular System

The design consists of modules, each measuring 5 x 5 meters. This modular system provides various options for residents to configure their living spaces according to their needs. By allowing different interior arrangements and courtyard options, the layout promotes a sense of ownership while encouraging interaction among residents. Flexibility is key, enabling inhabitants to adapt their spaces as life circumstances change.

Shared Pathways

An important aspect of the layout includes a shared longitudinal path that links different living units. This pathway facilitates easy movement and access throughout the neighborhood. It encourages social interaction among neighbors and creates opportunities for community-building. By connecting private homes with communal areas, the design fosters both solitude and social engagement within the same environment.

Private and Public Spaces

Arranging private gardens alongside shared communal spaces highlights a balance between personal retreat and community connection. Residents can enjoy their own outdoor areas while also having easy access to shared spaces for socializing. This thoughtful arrangement enhances community spirit, allowing interaction without compromising privacy.

The careful integration of modular living with communal amenities shows a commitment to improving daily life for residents. The design reflects modern needs while honoring traditional patterns of living. Good planning ensures transitions between private and public areas are clear and functional, allowing for a natural flow of movement throughout the neighborhood. The layout encourages both individual expression and a strong sense of community.

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

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Competition organisers

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

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