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Reclaimed Materials and Community-Centric Living in Compact Microhomes

Authors:
B. Tate Selby, Stuart Everett, Sebatian Escobar
Reclaimed Materials and Community-Centric Living in Compact Microhomes
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Utilizing reclaimed materials to embrace a community-focused approach, the microhome integrates a space-efficient design with a hydraulic system that harnesses wave energy to support sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design allowing for extensive customization by residents.
02
Incorporates reclaimed materials to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features a dual hydraulic/flywheel system that generates energy from wave motion.
04
Promotes community interaction through structured volunteer opportunities.
05
Designed for enhanced space efficiency with multifunctional fold-away components.

The Hexipad project introduces a fresh concept in microhousing, aiming to address pressing issues related to urban living and climate change. Located in Galveston, Texas, a city at risk of flooding and severe storms, the project focuses on creating a sustainable and functional living environment. The design centers around small, efficient homes known as "pills," which are intended to foster a sense of community among residents.

Modularity and Flexibility

The architecture prioritizes modularity, allowing residents to personalize their living spaces. Each Pillbox home occupies 24 square meters, designed to provide necessary amenities without wasting space. The structure is flexible enough to adapt to various living situations, making it appealing to different kinds of households. This adaptability supports changing lifestyles, ensuring that the homes can grow with their occupants.

Community Integration

A key feature of the Hexipad concept is its commitment to community. Residents are invited to take part in volunteer activities, promoting interactions and building social ties. This approach enhances the overall quality of life for individuals living in close proximity to one another. By encouraging participation, the design fosters a supportive environment where people can collaborate and share resources effectively.

Space Efficiency

Inside the Pillbox, every inch of space is thoughtfully planned to maximize usability. The layout includes foldable elements, such as stoves and ovens, which help create an open atmosphere suitable for various daily activities. This careful arrangement allows residents to live comfortably within a compact area while maintaining essential functions typically found in larger homes.

Sustainability in Design

Sustainability is a core principle underpinning the Hexipad initiative. The project utilizes reclaimed materials in construction to lessen environmental impacts and promote responsible sourcing. These materials help create a conscious living space that reflects a commitment to minimizing waste.

In addition to thoughtful material choices, the project features an innovative dual hydraulic/flywheel telescoping system. This technology harnesses wave motion to produce hydraulic fluid, supplying energy for the community. These advancements not only address practical energy needs but also strengthen the ability of the housing community to withstand future challenges.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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