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Photovoltaic-Enhanced Housing Designed with Insulated Panels and Community Engagement

Photovoltaic-Enhanced Housing Designed with Insulated Panels and Community Engagement
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Utilizing insulated panels and photovoltaic technology, this housing initiative integrates communal spaces within a sustainable framework to address the challenge of affordable living in Los Angeles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes KingSpan insulated panels for enhanced thermal performance and durability.
02
Incorporates rooftop photovoltaic panels to promote renewable energy use.
03
Features flexible modular unit designs to adapt to community needs.
04
Integrates landscaped communal areas to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Employs tankless water heaters to optimize space and energy efficiency.

## Overview

The Tail Neighborhood architectural design project addresses homelessness in Los Angeles, a city facing a substantial housing crisis affecting approximately 75,158 individuals. The initiative focuses on repurposing surplus parking lots to create affordable housing units. This approach not only utilizes underused land but also seeks to foster community connections through thoughtfully designed living environments.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout of the Tail Neighborhood consists of two-story residential units arranged along a central pedestrian promenade, promoting social interaction among residents. The first floor of each unit features an open-plan living area, kitchen, and dining space, designed to support the needs of small families and individuals. The upper level comprises private sleeping quarters, with flexible arrangements in two of the four units to accommodate diverse tenant needs.

### Material Innovation and Sustainability

A selection of durable and sustainable materials underpins the design. KingSpan insulated panels are employed for their weather resistance and energy efficiency, while photovoltaic panels installed on rooftops harness solar energy to reduce dependence on non-renewable sources. Tankless water heaters and zoned HVAC systems enhance comfort and efficiency within the residences. Additionally, concrete features create resilient outdoor spaces, complemented by wooden accents to soften the overall aesthetic. This combination of thoughtful material choices and sustainable systems aligns with the project's commitment to environmental responsibility and user comfort.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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