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Offset Volumes And Double Gardens Enhanced By Sustainable Concrete And Glass Integration

Author:
Stefano Sessa
Offset Volumes And Double Gardens Enhanced By Sustainable Concrete And Glass Integration

Project in-detail

Offset volumes and double gardens interwoven with sustainable concrete and glass create a harmonious blend of private and communal spaces designed to enhance urban living experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Offset housing volumes allow for enhanced light penetration and improved airflow.
02
Double gardens create segmented outdoor spaces for privacy and recreation.
03
Commercial spaces on the ground level promote community engagement and economic vitality.
04
Sustainable materials, including concrete and glass, support eco-friendly design principles.
05
Pedestrian pathways connect communal areas, encouraging social interaction among residents.
The Tetris Houses project, located at the intersection of Kingsland Road and 47th Street in Stamford Hill, London, presents a systematic response to urban density and the need for efficient land use in a growing metropolitan area. The architecture of this project effectively combines residential and commercial functions, designed to foster community interaction while preserving private spaces.

The primary function of the Tetris Houses is to accommodate residential living alongside commercial opportunities, thereby enhancing the vibrancy of the urban fabric. The project's layout incorporates significant features such as double gardens and offset housing volumes, achieving a balance between communal engagement and individual privacy. By facilitating both living and retail spaces within a cohesive environment, this design serves to enrich community life in a densely populated location.

One of the distinguishing aspects of this project is its emphasis on adaptive reuse and integration of natural elements. The design thoughtfully incorporates gardens and green spaces that blend with the built environment, promoting ecological sustainability and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The segmented private gardens, directly connected to living and sleeping quarters, create distinct outdoor experiences that cater to the varied needs of occupants.

Another unique characteristic is the thoughtful circulation paths strategically placed throughout the development. These narrow alleys encourage pedestrian movement and provide access to shared spaces, reinforcing social connections among residents. The design effectively maximizes light and air flow, particularly through the offset volumes of the housing units, which also allows for the creation of private outdoor spaces at various elevations.

Materials used in the Tetris Houses—such as concrete, glass, wood, and metal elements—are selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their functional contributions to the overall performance of the structure. The combination of these materials supports a modern architectural language that is both durable and inviting.

The architectural plans and sections of this project reflect a thoughtful approach to urban living, emphasizing both community and individual needs. For those interested in exploring more details about the architectural designs and innovative ideas behind Tetris Houses, further examination of the project’s documentation is recommended. Understanding elements such as architectural plans and sections can provide deeper insights into the significance of this architectural endeavor.
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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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