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Modular Units with Community Voids Enhanced by Glass and Concrete Integration

Authors:
Jazmín Rivera, Nataly Revelo
Modular Units with Community Voids Enhanced by Glass and Concrete Integration

Project in-detail

Modular housing units are ingeniously designed with community voids that connect residents, employing glass and concrete to harmonize with the historic charm of The Rocks while providing sustainable, adaptable living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed to accommodate a range of household sizes, enhancing adaptability for diverse lifestyles.
02
The integration of voids throughout the design encourages social interaction among residents, fostering community ties.
03
Sustainability is prioritized through the use of local materials and energy-efficient construction methods.
04
An innovative use of glass maximizes natural light, creating brighter living environments while connecting residents to the outdoors.
05
The project incorporates a bent A-frame design that adds a distinctive architectural character while optimizing structural performance.
The C-Box Modular Housing project represents a thoughtful approach to contemporary urban living in Sydney, Australia. Designed to address the multifaceted challenges of increasing housing demand, it stands as a modular solution that promotes both flexibility and community engagement. Situated in the historic precinct known as The Rocks, the project carefully navigates the delicate balance between preserving the cultural heritage of the area and responding to modern architectural needs.

At its core, the C-Box project embodies a concept centered around the integration of “void” spaces. These voids are not merely aesthetic or spatial considerations; they serve as connectors that link individual living units and foster a sense of community among residents. The design encourages interaction and engagement, contributing to a collaborative living environment. Through its modular units, the project provides adaptable housing solutions that can meet varying residential configurations, accommodating different household sizes and lifestyles.

The functional aspects of the C-Box project are as critical as its aesthetic details. The two-bedroom apartments, with varying configurations from 72 square meters to more spacious three-bedroom options at 108 square meters, cater to families and individuals alike. Modular suite designs, starting from 36 square meters, provide intimate living spaces that can be tailor-fit for different inhabitants. This variety ensures that the architecture is not just a response to housing needs but also a reflection of the diverse community that resides in Sydney.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project’s execution. The selection of concrete offers structural robustness, which is essential for modular construction in urban settings. Glass is used to maximize natural light, enhancing the living experience by creating connections to the vibrant cityscape outside. The incorporation of metal panels for façade design introduces a modern aesthetic while allowing for sustainable practices. Lastly, the use of wood provides a warm contrast that resonates with the historical context of The Rocks, bridging the old with the new.

A unique aspect of the C-Box project is its flexible building configurations. Options for vertical construction maximize land use in densely populated areas, accommodating a larger number of residents without overwhelming the space. In contrast, horizontal configurations prioritize accessibility and shared green areas, promoting a sense of community while ensuring that public spaces are available for all inhabitants. This thoughtful design cultivates a neighborhood feel that is often lost in urban developments, emphasizing the importance of social interaction in an increasingly isolated world.

The overall architectural design embraces the spirit of Sydney, where historical and modern elements coexist. The strategic voids and communal spaces weave a narrative that invites a collective experience, reinforcing the idea that architecture can foster connections. This duality of old and new is particularly significant in The Rocks, where the historical heritage is treasured and informally critiqued by contemporary design initiatives.

In summary, the C-Box Modular Housing project demonstrates an effective response to urban housing demands while respecting the historical context of its location. The blend of adaptable living spaces, community-oriented voids, and a thoughtful material palette enrich the architectural landscape of Sydney. For those interested in further exploring the unique elements of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, a detailed presentation awaits to deepen your understanding of this innovative approach to housing in a complex urban environment.
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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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