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Recycled Materials Form Urban Caverns for Community Living

Authors:
Olga Sizoy, Elizaveta Nikolskaya
Recycled Materials Form Urban Caverns for Community Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from innovative 3D-printed recycled materials, the design creates unique communal living spaces that blend natural light and flexible layouts to foster connectivity among residents in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology to create structural components from recycled waste materials.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and daylight throughout the living spaces.
03
Incorporates modular living units to adapt to diverse resident needs and foster community interaction.
04
Emphasizes indoor gardens and green spaces to enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
05
Integrates a mobile app for efficient management and scheduling of shared communal areas.
The Digital Cave architectural project offers a thoughtful response to the contemporary societal challenges of urban living, particularly in relation to isolation and the need for community engagement. Located in Rome, a city with a profound historical context, this project reinterprets the concept of collective housing by drawing inspiration from the caves of prehistoric times. The design encapsulates a vision for modern living that emphasizes sustainability and social connectivity.

At its core, the project represents a paradigm shift in how architecture can foster community. It aims to create spaces that not only accommodate individual units but also invite interaction, promoting a sense of belonging among residents. By reimagining traditional housing layouts, the Digital Cave seeks to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants through shared public spaces and thoughtful spatial composition.

The function of the Digital Cave extends beyond that of mere shelter. It encompasses a diverse mix of living environments, including family units, communal areas, and facilities for leisure and engagement. Central to the design are various communal spaces, which include libraries, gyms, and relaxation areas. These spaces are designed to encourage residents to come together, share experiences, and participate in collective activities, reinforcing the project's emphasis on community.

The unique design approaches of the Digital Cave are evident in its organic, flowing forms, which evoke the shapes found in nature and traditional cave dwellings. This design not only contributes aesthetic value but enhances the functional aspect of the project by creating varied spatial experiences within the structure. The layout varies in height and volume, providing secluded personal spaces while also facilitating open, inviting communal areas. Large glass panels are strategically placed throughout the design to maximize natural light and enable residents to connect visually with the exterior environment, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

A defining feature of the Digital Cave is its commitment to sustainability. Utilizing advanced 3D printing techniques, the project leverages recycled materials to construct its core components. This innovative method not only reduces waste but also highlights the potential for eco-friendly construction practices in urban contexts. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity while maintaining a focus on sustainability. The integration of such materials reflects a growing trend within architecture toward environmentally responsible building strategies.

Moreover, technology is interwoven into the daily lives of residents through a dedicated mobile application. This application enables efficient management of shared spaces, enhancing community interaction and fostering an atmosphere of cooperation among residents. By incorporating such technological solutions, the Digital Cave reinforces the idea of a modern communal living experience that adapts to contemporary lifestyles.

The project has distinct qualities that set it apart from conventional residential developments. Its flexible living spaces cater to varying demographics and lifestyle needs, ensuring that diverse community members can find suitable accommodations within this structure. This adaptability is crucial in addressing the evolving nature of urban living.

The overall design philosophy of the Digital Cave redefines what it means to live in a city. By prioritizing community, ecological sustainability, and technological integration, this architectural endeavor challenges the prevalent notions of individualism in urban contexts. It invites a reevaluation of the relationship between residents and their living environments, proposing a model that promotes collaboration and shared experiences.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural project, detailed presentations of architectural plans, sections, and design concepts are available. These resources provide further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that underpin the Digital Cave and illustrate the thoughtful design approaches that make it a relevant response to contemporary urban challenges.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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