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Pixelated Clusters of Reinforced Concrete and Metal Grilles in a Flexible Urban Habitat

Author:
Ching Akina Lee
Pixelated Clusters of Reinforced Concrete and Metal Grilles in a Flexible Urban Habitat
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Comprising modular clusters of reinforced concrete and metal grilles, this flexible urban habitat redefines residential living in To Kwa Wan by fostering community interaction within a compact, adaptive space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy reconfiguration to adapt to changing resident needs.
02
The design incorporates extensive communal areas to promote social interaction among residents.
03
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategic placement of open-concept spaces and metal grilles.
04
The project utilizes locally sourced materials to enhance sustainability within the urban context.
05
Each unit features flexible layouts that accommodate various family types and living preferences.

## Project Overview
The Habitat of 99-Pixels is located in the To Kwa Wan district of Hong Kong, an area characterized by high population density and limited land availability. The design aims to address the urgent housing demands through modular construction that promotes community-oriented living and adaptability to diverse residential needs.

### Modular Design Strategy
Central to the project is a pixel-like modularity that allows residential units to be arranged in a flexible grid system, optimizing land utilization. This approach facilitates density while fostering social cohesion among residents. The building blocks consist of plug-in clusters made from common, cost-effective materials, ensuring that they can be easily added or modified in response to evolving housing demands. The layout includes various configurations, such as one-room apartments and open studio units, accommodating different family structures and lifestyles.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette emphasizes functionality, aesthetic integration, and sustainability. Reinforced concrete provides structural durability, while metal grilles facilitate ventilation and light infiltration without compromising security. Transparent glass elements enhance visual connections within the community, and wooden finishes add warmth to living spaces. The design prioritizes sustainable urban living by incorporating open spaces and efficient land use, alongside promoting social interaction through semi-private and communal areas, contributing to a vibrant urban life.

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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.

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