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Reclaimed Concrete and Metal Integration for Flexible Urban Housing Solutions

Authors:
Jifu Li, Yuqi Fang
Reclaimed Concrete and Metal Integration for Flexible Urban Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

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 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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