Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Reclaimed Wood and Steel Structure Enhancing Urban Community Living

Authors:
Tianyu Zhao, Mengyang Wu, Chang Lu, Shaha Maiteh
Reclaimed Wood and Steel Structure Enhancing Urban Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a distinctive blend of reclaimed wood and steel, the design transforms urban living by fostering community engagement through adaptable co-housing units and green shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates reclaimed wood and steel to maximize sustainability and resource efficiency.
02
Features a circular layout designed to enhance community interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes large glass façades to create a strong visual connection with the surrounding urban environment.
04
Includes shared green spaces that promote biodiversity and recreational activities within the urban context.
05
Employs adaptive reuse principles to integrate modern living with the historical characteristics of the area.
The architectural project located at Via del Commercio, 00154 Roma, Italy, embodies a thoughtful approach to urban living in a historical context. It emerges as a solution to the current challenges of housing affordability and urban density, representing an effort to combine contemporary needs with the intrinsic character of its surroundings. The design serves a dual purpose, functioning not just as a residential space but also as a catalyst for community engagement.

At its core, the project is an exploration of adaptive reuse and densification, employing a circular design that encourages interaction among residents. It emphasizes social connections, addressing the modern demographic's desire for communal living without sacrificing privacy. The arrangement of residential units reflects a meticulous consideration of diverse family structures, allowing for flexibility in living arrangements. The design integrates co-housing units that feature a mix of single and double bedrooms, catering to various lifestyle preferences while promoting a sense of community.

The architectural language of the project incorporates a blend of materials that foster both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Prominently featured are a robust steel framework and expansive glass façades that create a harmonious dialogue between the interior and exterior. The glass not only invites natural light into living spaces, enhancing the overall ambiance but also facilitates a visual connection with the vibrant urban environment outside. The selection of reclaimed wood serves as a nod to history, providing warmth and texture that counterbalances the modernity of steel and glass.

Concrete is extensively utilized throughout the structural components, offering durability and form. Its presence is significant in establishing the project's foundational aspect while aluminum cladding enhances energy efficiency through effective insulation, representing a commitment to sustainable practices in architecture. Additionally, the incorporation of landscaped green areas within the design not only adds aesthetic value but also provides essential spaces for recreation and social interaction among residents.

The layout strategically zones private and communal spaces, ensuring that while residents have their individual sanctuaries, they are also encouraged to partake in shared activities. Communal amenities, including terraces and shared kitchens, are integral to the design, allowing for gatherings and fostering a supportive living environment. This arrangement reflects a growing trend in urban architecture, where the design is not solely focused on individual comfort but rather emphasizes the importance of community ties.

The project stands out for its unique approach to addressing urban living challenges through its design and material choices. It elevates the conversation around social housing by providing a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution that mirrors the needs of contemporary urban populations. Furthermore, this architectural endeavor revitalizes the existing urban fabric, merging modern sensibilities with historical context in a seamless manner.

In exploring the architectural plans and sections, one can gain deeper insights into how each design element contributes to the overall functionality of the project. The careful consideration of form and function, alongside a commitment to sustainable practices, showcases the potential for effective design in urban environments. For those interested in a more comprehensive understanding of this endeavor, reviewing the architectural designs and their innovative ideas will provide additional context and depth to the discussion surrounding this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy