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Passive Design in Modular Housing Using Underutilized Spaces

Authors:
Leoni Uskuri, Ryan Theobald, Oguz Uskuri
Passive Design in Modular Housing Using Underutilized Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing underused side passages for modular housing, this design enhances community integration while providing affordable residences for young professionals in St Albans.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes underused side passages for residential development.
02
Focuses on modular design for adaptability in urban settings.
03
Emphasizes passive solar orientation to enhance energy efficiency.
04
Integrates seamlessly with existing terraced housing typologies.
05
Targets affordable living solutions for young professionals.

Microhome City offers a modern solution to the challenge of affordable housing in St Albans, Hertfordshire. Located in a city known for high property prices, the design targets young professionals and couples who are seeking manageable living spaces. The project utilizes a modular approach that adapts well to varying site conditions, making it easy to integrate new homes into the established urban environment.

Architectural Concept

The design focuses on placing modular housing units in underused side passages and vacant spaces between existing terraced houses. By exploring these overlooked areas, the project creates numerous opportunities for residential units without altering the overall look of the neighborhood. This approach maximizes the efficient use of space while maintaining a balance between communal areas and residents' privacy.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important part of the design. The project emphasizes a small footprint and effective environmental performance. One key feature is the careful positioning of buildings to take advantage of passive solar energy. By designing facades that capture ample natural light, the living areas become warm and welcoming while reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. This careful planning contributes to a smaller environmental impact.

Community Integration

Integrating the new homes with existing street layouts is essential to fostering community. The project upholds familiar urban structures, allowing a smooth flow from old to new homes. This design helps maintain neighborhood connections, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings. The goal is to create an environment where social interactions can thrive, enhancing the overall community spirit.

Design Details

While specific materials are not mentioned, the design suggests a focus on modern construction methods that prioritize durability and energy efficiency. The finishing touches of the concept feature well-designed facades, carefully crafted to elevate the living experience while ensuring functionality. Microhome City exemplifies how thoughtful design can address pressing housing needs while respecting the characteristics of the urban landscape.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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