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Reclaimed Wood and Living Green Walls in a Compact Urban Dwelling

Author:
Jay Dragon
Reclaimed Wood and Living Green Walls in a Compact Urban Dwelling

Project in-detail

Incorporating reclaimed wood alongside a vibrant living green wall, this compact urban dwelling redefines efficient living while harmonizing with its surroundings to create a versatile home environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a living green wall to enhance air quality and aesthetics within the urban environment.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and natural insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and natural light.
04
Includes adaptable furniture solutions that transform living areas for multi-functional use.
05
Employs charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance while providing a distinct visual texture.
The project "Fulfill The Gap" represents a thoughtful response to contemporary challenges in urban living, addressing the pressing issues of limited space in densely populated areas. This architectural design embodies the principles of the Micro-House Movement, showcasing an innovative approach that allows for maximized functionality without compromising the experience of living within a compact environment. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability and efficiency, essential for modern urban contexts, particularly in cities that face housing shortages.

At its core, the project serves as a small-scale urban dwelling that speaks to the need for practical and adaptable living spaces. The architecture fosters a sense of community while ensuring personal comfort. Each area within the structure is meticulously planned to serve multiple functions, encouraging a versatile way of life. The organization of the space follows a purposeful layout, featuring a seamless flow between living, dining, kitchen, and sleeping areas that caters to everyday needs without overwhelming the user.

One of the key features of the design is the innovative use of space through a multi-level arrangement. The first level integrates a compact living room and dining area that transitions smoothly into a modular kitchen. This designation not only optimizes ergonomics but also helps facilitate social interaction, a vital aspect of urban living. The introduction of a wet bathroom maintains essential functionality while minimizing the footprint required for plumbing infrastructure. By carefully considering the layout, the design maximizes utility in every square foot.

Moving to the second level, a flexible sleeping arrangement allows for adaptability. The furniture arrangements are designed with versatility in mind, including modular pieces that can transform from a workspace to a sleeping area. The approach reflects an understanding of how urban dwellers seek spaces that respond to their multifaceted lives. The third level offers a quiet retreat, emphasizing relaxation and connection to the outdoors, a valuable element in urban settings often characterized by concrete and metal.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and aesthetic integrity. The use of reclaimed oak wood flooring introduces warmth and character into the living spaces while demonstrating a respect for environmental responsibility. Dual-pane glass windows are strategically incorporated to allow natural light to flood the interiors, enhancing the sense of openness while supporting energy efficiency. These design choices not only improve the living experience but also serve to reduce the environmental impact of the project.

An innovative feature within the design is the living green wall, which serves as a functional element that purifies air and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the environment. This vertical garden underscores the project’s ecological ethos and provides a small pocket of nature within the urban landscape. Integrating such elements within the architecture also brings attention to the importance of biophilic design principles, which seek to create a closer connection between people and nature.

The roof design incorporates passive solar energy techniques, utilizing a sloped structure to harness sunlight effectively. This feature reinforces the project’s sustainability objectives, demonstrating how architecture can harmonize with natural energy systems to provide efficient and comfortable living conditions.

The overall program of the project is thoughtfully organized, comprising well-defined spaces that include essential elements such as living quarters, kitchen facilities, and communal areas. This logical planning aids in delivering a cohesive living experience that stands in contrast to conventional larger dwellings that may not always afford the same level of functionality in smaller footprints.

"Fulfill The Gap" uniquely showcases that contemporary urban architecture can take on many forms, challenging preconceived notions of what a home should be. It invites future discussions on innovative housing solutions and responsive design practices that adequately meet current urban needs. For those interested in exploring this project further, engaging with the architectural plans, sections, and design details will provide deeper insights into the compelling ideas that inform this noteworthy architectural endeavor.
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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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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