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Mycelium Insulation and 3D-Printed Composites Create Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Author:
Esra Karagoz
Mycelium Insulation and 3D-Printed Composites Create Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Harnessing mycelium insulation and 3D-printed composites, this urban living space redefines flexibility and sustainability to accommodate diverse community needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes mycelium as an ecological insulation solution, reducing its carbon footprint.
02
3D-printed composite elements are integrated into the structure, allowing precise and adaptable configurations.
03
A unique bent A-frame design enhances natural light penetration and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Pop-up retail areas foster local entrepreneurship and community interaction within the urban environment.
05
The project incorporates extensive green roofs and vertical gardens to promote biodiversity and urban agriculture.
The architectural design project known as Amoeba Fusions stands as a thoughtful exploration of contemporary urban living, particularly in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. This project embodies a vision of flexibility and sustainability, creating an adaptive environment that caters to a diverse range of communal and individual needs. At its core, Amoeba Fusions represents the integration of nature-inspired forms with functional living spaces, resulting in a structure that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply functional and mindful of the surrounding urban context.

The primary function of Amoeba Fusions is to provide a multipurpose environment that fosters coexistence among residential, commercial, and communal spaces. An essential aspect of this architecture is its modular design, which allows different configurations to accommodate the dynamic nature of urban life. The layout encourages interaction by incorporating communal gardens, co-working spaces, and areas for social gatherings, thereby promoting a sense of community among residents and visitors alike. Each floor is designed with intentionality, accommodating a variety of uses from retail and dining on the ground level to adaptable residential units above, all while maintaining a focus on continuity and connectivity.

One of the key attributes of this architectural design is its organic form, inspired by the shape and behavior of amoebas. This design approach allows for a fluidity that contrasts with the rigidity of traditional structures, thereby creating spaces that feel less constrained and more inviting. The undulating contours of the facade not only enhance visual interest but also play a practical role in maximizing natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces. This emphasis on natural elements reflects a broader focus on sustainability, which is embedded in the project's ethos.

The materiality of Amoeba Fusions is another noteworthy aspect that contributes to its identity. The project employs innovative materials, including 3D-printed elements and mycelium composites, which highlight a commitment to eco-friendly building practices. 3D printing allows for precise construction that can be tailored to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, while mycelium composites provide an alternative, renewable resource for insulation and structural support. Additionally, the integration of photovoltaic panels into the building's design ensures that energy generation becomes an inherent part of the structure, further solidifying its sustainability credentials. Furthermore, the use of permeable pavements and green walls fosters an environment conducive to biodiversity, reflecting a conscious effort to blend architecture with the natural landscape.

Amoeba Fusions also incorporates thoughtful elements of adaptable reuse and community-focused design. By featuring spaces that can easily be transformed in response to changing needs, the architecture addresses the potential for future growth and evolution within the urban fabric. This adaptability is critical in a city like New York, where the user demographic is continually shifting. The designers have envisioned a space where local entrepreneurs can thrive, with areas designated for pop-up shops and collaborative work environments, which illustrates a forward-thinking approach to urban entrepreneurship.

The project emphasizes the importance of social interaction and collaboration, creating a habitat that encourages dialogue and connection among its inhabitants. Communal spaces, from gardens to gathering areas, are intentionally designed to facilitate engagement, breaking down barriers that often exist in urban settings. This design choice reflects a growing recognition of the importance of community well-being in architecture, prioritizing shared experiences in an increasingly individualistic world.

For those interested in a deeper dive into Amoeba Fusions, it is worth exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas incorporated throughout the project. Each of these elements contributes to a comprehensive understanding of how the design translates conceptual themes into functional space, offering valuable insights into the project’s ambitions and methodologies. By examining these components, one can appreciate the nuanced approach taken in creating a space that not only meets the immediate needs of its users but also fosters a vibrant community and respects the environment in which it resides. The design of Amoeba Fusions stands as a testament to what modern architecture can achieve in terms of sustainability, adaptability, and social responsibility, making it a compelling case study for urban architecture today.
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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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