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Reclaimed Brick Facades in a Landscape-Integrated Community Housing Design

Author:
Hugo Hardy
Reclaimed Brick Facades in a Landscape-Integrated Community Housing Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing reclaimed bricks for its façades and incorporating communal spaces that enhance social interaction, the design creates a sustainable housing solution that harmonizes with the Umbria landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed bricks from local deconstructed buildings form the unique façade.
02
Open-plan living areas seamlessly extend to outdoor terraces for enhanced connectivity.
03
Community-oriented design includes shared spaces for social gatherings.
04
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategic window placements.
05
Incorporated rainwater recycling systems promote sustainable resource management.

The architectural project "Another Brick in the Wall" is situated in Umbria, Italy, and focuses on contemporary housing solutions that honor the region's historical context. The design employs reclaimed materials, primarily bricks, derived from local deconstructed buildings, creating a strong link between past and present. This project serves as a model for sustainable architecture, integrating modern functions with the cultural heritage of its surroundings.

One of the foremost features of the project is its commitment to sustainability. The housing design utilizes reclaimed bricks not only for aesthetic purposes but also as a means of reducing waste and promoting environmentally conscious building practices. This approach speaks to a broader trend in architecture that prioritizes material reuse and ecological integrity. Through the incorporation of various natural and durable materials, the design addresses the need for modern housing while ensuring minimal environmental disruption.

The layout of "Another Brick in the Wall" is efficient and thoughtfully designed, featuring semi-detached dwellings that maximize space and promote community interaction. Each unit incorporates open-plan living areas that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor environments. Large windows facilitate natural light and ventilation, enhancing the overall living experience. Additionally, outdoor terraces encourage residents to engage with the landscape, reinforcing the project's connection to its surroundings.

Significantly, the project integrates communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents. This includes a common building designed for group activities, which is essential for creating community ties within the development. The orientation of these communal areas is strategic, providing favorable views of the surrounding valley and further connecting the inhabitants with nature.

The unique design approaches of "Another Brick in the Wall" set it apart from similar architectural projects. Its focus on reclaimed materials not only preserves the historical essence of the area but also demonstrates innovative methods for resource management in building. Furthermore, the careful consideration of landscape engagement showcases a dedication to harmonizing new constructions with existing topography. This responsiveness to the environment aids in transitioning between the natural and built landscapes.

For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans and sections will provide deeper insights into the design strategies employed. Observing the architectural details and concepts can yield a clearer understanding of how "Another Brick in the Wall" embodies a thoughtful balance of modern needs and historical respect, making it a noteworthy undertaking in contemporary architecture.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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