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Reclaimed Concrete and Metal Integration for Flexible Urban Housing Solutions

Reclaimed Concrete and Metal Integration for Flexible Urban Housing Solutions
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Utilizing reclaimed concrete and metal, the design redefines urban housing with modular units that promote adaptability and community engagement in a sustainable framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design that allows for rapid assembly and reconfiguration in various urban contexts.
02
Integrates reclaimed concrete and metal elements sourced from local deconstruction projects.
03
Features interlocking units that enhance structural stability and aesthetic continuity.
04
Promotes community engagement by incorporating shared spaces within the housing framework.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through the use of energy-efficient materials and construction practices.

### Project Overview

The "Modular System: Repurpose and Renewal" project, developed by Jifii Fang and Yuqi Fang at the University of Pennsylvania, aims to reconfigure existing urban structures using modular construction principles. This initiative focuses on the sustainable use of reclaimed materials, particularly concrete and metal, in response to urban decline and the growing need for innovative housing solutions. The design is aligned with broader themes of urban renewal and resilience, providing a strategic approach to address community housing needs in deteriorating neighborhoods.

### Modular Construction and Community Resilience

The architectural strategy is centered on the creation of prefabricated, interlocking units that can be efficiently deployed in various urban environments. By emphasizing sustainability, the project repurposes concrete and metal sourced from decommissioned buildings, thereby reducing waste and extending material lifecycles. The modular units facilitate flexibility and adaptability, allowing modifications based on community dynamics and evolving requirements. This framework not only serves as a housing solution but also aims to reinvigorate neighborhoods by incorporating essential services that foster community engagement.

### Material Selection and Structural Innovation

The choice of materials plays a critical role in the project's functionality and aesthetic. Reclaimed concrete is utilized for its durability, while lightweight, reclaimed metal enhances structural integrity. The design incorporates prefabricated elements, such as modular blocks and components designed for easy on-site assembly, which contributes to reduced construction time and lower labor costs.

The integration of an innovative interlocking mechanism supports effective weight distribution across the existing structural framework, prioritizing safety in urban contexts. The facade system features a distinctive pattern that promotes natural light penetration while enriching the overall aesthetic. Proposed building typologies range from residential units to commercial spaces, ensuring adaptability to diverse community needs and enhancing urban landscapes.

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MICROHOME 2026
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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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