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Passive House Micro-Units With Shared Spaces in a Modular Framework

Authors:
Bronwyn Breitner, Luigi Ciaccia, Scott Mikawa, Catherine Earley
Passive House Micro-Units With Shared Spaces in a Modular Framework

Project in-detail

Passive house micro-units designed with a modular framework and integrated communal spaces provide innovative and affordable housing solutions in the heart of New York City's evolving neighborhoods.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular system allows only two off-site fabricated components for construction.
02
Design incorporates a single stair run for continuous access between units.
03
Passively designed to meet strict energy efficiency standards.
04
Shared communal spaces integrated directly into the building layout.
05
Void spaces utilized for essential amenities and enhanced ventilation.

The modular apartment system is designed to address the housing challenges faced in New York City. Positioned in areas such as Bushwick, East New York, Mott Haven, and Astoria, the project focuses on providing affordable and functional living spaces for residents. The design concept prioritizes efficiency and community, employing a series of frame modules that allow for expedited construction and effective space management.

Modularity and Efficiency

Utilizing a modular approach means that only two main components are built off-site, making the construction process quicker and less disruptive. Each unit connects within a larger framework, facilitating stacking and rotation that enhance both accessibility and circulation. This thoughtful layout aims to streamline movement throughout the living environment, while also minimizing construction impacts on the residents and their neighborhoods.

Sustainability and Passive Design

A critical aspect is the commitment to passive house standards that enhance energy efficiency. The design incorporates structural elements that reduce thermal bridging, an important feature for energy performance. By focusing on sustainability, the project not only meets the demand for affordable housing but also promotes environmentally friendly living conditions.

Community Focus

The design highlights the importance of shared spaces that encourage social interaction among residents. Each micro-studio unit is about 216 square feet, strategically designed with access to communal areas that serve various needs. The layout includes stairs that lead to shared amenities, like laundry facilities and roof gardens. These elements help create a strong sense of community where neighbors can connect.

Private and Communal Balance

The arrangement of the units maintains a focus on both privacy and community. Each module is thoughtfully positioned to provide personal space while still inviting interaction with others. Private outdoor areas connect to the living units, promoting neighborly engagement. Additionally, void spaces between modules allow for essential facilities, contributing to better ventilation and overall livability.

This modular design adapts well to different lot sizes, even in narrow spaces as small as 15 feet. The careful planning ensures that the building can fit into various urban environments. The result is a living space that meets housing needs while enhancing the overall community experience.

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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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