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Prefabricated Shipping Containers Enhanced With Aquaponics Systems For Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Milikani Khupe, Derek Faure
Prefabricated Shipping Containers Enhanced With Aquaponics Systems For Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Repurposed shipping containers integrated with an aquaponics system provide a sustainable solution for affordable urban living, enhancing community ties while addressing housing shortages in a rapidly growing city.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed shipping containers to reduce construction costs and environmental impact.
02
Features an integrated aquaponics system for sustainable food production within the community.
03
Designed with flexible modularity to adapt to changing family sizes and living needs.
04
Incorporates extensive cross ventilation to enhance indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
05
Emphasizes communal spaces to promote social interaction and foster a sense of community among residents.
Hous_d is an architectural project that addresses the pressing need for affordable housing solutions in urban environments, specifically in Sydney, Australia. The design embodies a pragmatic approach to modern living, focusing on modularity, sustainability, and adaptability. As urban populations grow and housing demands rise, Hous_d stands as an effective response to the challenges of providing affordable yet dignified living spaces.

At the core of Hous_d is its use of repurposed shipping containers as the primary structural module. This choice not only mitigates construction costs but also aligns with sustainable practices by recycling materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste. The concept embraces flexibility, allowing for varied configurations to accommodate different family sizes and living arrangements. Each container unit is carefully designed to maximize spatial efficiency while ensuring comfort and livability, with well-planned layouts that integrate living spaces, bedrooms, and communal areas.

The architectural design emphasizes functionality without compromising on aesthetics. The configuration of the containers allows for immediate assembly and rearrangement, enabling them to adapt quickly to the changing needs of residents. This modular approach encourages a dynamic community environment where spaces can be repurposed or expanded as required, making it a unique solution in the realm of affordable housing.

Sustainability plays a pivotal role in the design philosophy of Hous_d. The architectural choices reflect a commitment to ecological mindfulness, incorporating features such as solar panels for energy generation and an aquaponics system that promotes local food production. Moreover, effective ventilation strategies ensure that the indoor climate remains comfortable without relying heavily on artificial heating or cooling systems. This integration of natural systems within the architecture not only reduces the overall environmental footprint but also enhances the quality of life for residents.

Attention to communal living is another fundamental aspect of Hous_d. Shared spaces are interspersed throughout the development, fostering social interaction and connection among residents. These areas are carefully designed to encourage engagement and collaboration, reinforcing a sense of community within the modular living environment. By prioritizing communal spaces, Hous_d challenges the often isolating nature of contemporary urban living, promoting relationships and social ties among neighbors.

In terms of architectural details, the project integrates modern design aesthetics with the practicality of the shipping container structure. The exterior expresses a clean, contemporary style that harmonizes with the urban surroundings of Sydney while incorporating large windows to maximize natural light. This attention to daylighting not only enhances the visual appeal of the containers but also contributes to energy efficiency, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

Furthermore, the structural integrity of Hous_d is reinforced through a robust steel frame, which complements the container design by providing necessary support while maintaining open, airy spaces. The choice of materials reflects a keen awareness of durability and maintenance, ensuring that the project withstands the elements while requiring minimal upkeep.

Hous_d embodies a forward-thinking approach to architectural design that prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and community. The project demonstrates how innovative design solutions can address significant housing issues while creating vibrant living spaces. For those interested in understanding the finer details of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and ideas that inform the overall strategy, exploring the project presentation will provide a comprehensive insight into this thoughtful architectural endeavor. By reviewing these elements, readers can gain deeper appreciation for how architecture can contribute to better living conditions in urban settings.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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