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Rainwater Harvesting and Flexible Modular Living Using Plywood and Cork

Author:
Adriana Baqueiro
Rainwater Harvesting and Flexible Modular Living Using Plywood and Cork

Project in-detail

Utilizing plywood and cork for enhanced insulation and sustainability, this innovative urban housing solution incorporates rainwater harvesting and modular design to foster a vibrant community living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes renewable plywood and cork as primary building materials for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote efficient water use among residents.
03
Features a flexible modular design allowing for customizable living spaces based on individual needs.
04
Offers shared microfarm opportunities, encouraging community engagement through urban agriculture.
05
Integrates passive heating and ventilation systems to reduce energy consumption and enhance comfort.
The UNION Housing project represents a significant advancement in the architectural design of urban living spaces, reflecting contemporary needs for affordability, sustainability, and community. This project is situated on previously underutilized land in a downtown area, illustrating a practical approach to urban redevelopment. By transforming this neglected space into a vibrant housing solution, the project addresses the urgent demand for living environments that can accommodate the complexities of modern urban life.

At its core, the UNION Housing project is designed to be a small-scale residential community. It emphasizes the importance of communal living while catering to individual privacy and comfort. The design proposes a series of modular living units that can be adapted to meet the varying needs of its residents. The project's configuration allows for both shared and private amenities, fostering neighborly connections while respecting personal space. This dual focus on community and individuality serves to enrich the living experience, encouraging social interaction without compromising personal privacy.

The materials chosen for the project are meaningful and intentional. Plywood and sustainable timber play central roles in the construction, providing both structural strength and ecological mindfulness. These materials not only have lower environmental impacts compared to traditional options but also add a warmth to the interiors that enhances the overall atmosphere of the living spaces. Cork, recognized for its insulation properties, is integrated to improve thermal comfort and sound attenuation within the apartments, creating a peaceful living environment. The careful selection of exterior paints, likely derived from natural pigments, further complements the overall eco-friendly ethos of the design.

One of the notable aspects of this architectural design is its commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of passive heating and ventilation techniques significantly reduces energy consumption, which is a growing concern in urban environments. Additionally, the project features systems for rainwater harvesting, enabling residents to reduce their reliance on municipal water supply, which fosters a sense of environmental responsibility. The potential for solar panels on the roofs not only provides energy solutions but also symbolizes the forward-thinking nature of the project.

The layout of the UNION Housing project has been carefully crafted to enhance the living experience. The design is structured to provide a seamless flow between private and communal areas. Private spaces, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, are thoughtfully isolated from the collective sections like kitchens and lounges, allowing for both privacy and community engagement. The interiors are adaptable, featuring movable partitions that enable residents to reconfigure their spaces based on their specific needs, thus promoting versatility in living arrangements.

A unique feature of this project is its proposal for urban agriculture. The integration of microfarms within the residential structure encourages residents to engage in sustainable practices while benefiting from locally grown produce. This not only contributes to food security but also fosters a sense of community as neighbors collaborate on cultivating shared garden spaces. Such design ideas cultivate a lifestyle that embraces environmental stewardship and supports social interactions among residents.

Overall, the UNION Housing project goes beyond merely providing shelter. It embodies a holistic approach to living that prioritizes sustainability, community, and adaptability. The project serves as a model for future architectural designs aimed at solving urban challenges with a focus on lifestyle quality. By exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this project, readers can gain deeper insights into how innovative ideas are shaping modern urban environments. Take the time to review the project presentation for further details and to appreciate the thoughtful design concepts that inform this unique residential solution.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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