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Recycled Steel and Green Roofing in Compact Micro-Housing Solutions

Author:
Stephanie Cote
Recycled Steel and Green Roofing in Compact Micro-Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled steel and topped with green roofing, this compact micro-housing solution addresses urban living challenges while promoting sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled steel sheeting for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates green roofs for urban farming and insulation benefits.
03
Designed with communal cisterns to enhance water accessibility for residents.
04
Features modular assembly for rapid construction and adaptability to site conditions.
05
Promotes natural ventilation through strategic layout and window placement.
The Petal Pod project presents an innovative architectural solution aimed at addressing the global housing crisis, particularly in the context of urban slums. This design is a micro-housing system that spans 24 square meters per unit, efficiently utilizing space while catering to essential human needs. The project emphasizes sustainability, community, and adaptability, ensuring that it meets the requirements of diverse urban environments where one-third of the world’s population may potentially reside by 2050.

The Petal Pod functions as a flexible living space that integrates essential amenities including a living room, kitchen, bathroom, and loft sleeping area. The architectural designs prioritize not only livability but also the social dynamics of community living. By clustering individual units around shared resources such as cisterns, the design fosters interaction among residents, promoting a strong communal bond. This aspect of the project contributes to the creation of a supportive environment vital for individuals and families in challenging living situations.

Sustainability is a core tenet of the Petal Pod design. The primary materials used are recycled steel sheeting for the structure, which enables quick assembly and minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, wood elements are incorporated to enhance aesthetics and provide structural support. A noteworthy feature of the project is its focus on water harvesting, which is integrated into the architectural plans through an innovative collection system designed to gather rainwater. This feature ensures access to potable water, addressing a critical need in underserved regions. Furthermore, the green roofs of the pods serve not only as insulation but also support urban farming, thus fostering food security and enhancing biodiversity within the urban context.

Architectural ideas presented in the Petal Pod project are distinctive in their holistic approach to housing. The circular layout encourages visibility and interaction while maintaining privacy for residents. This design strategy aligns with the project's intention to create safe spaces that foster communal well-being, challenging traditional layouts often found in urban settings. The integration of eco-friendly systems for water management and urban agriculture demonstrates a commitment to a self-sustaining design ethos that moves beyond immediate shelter solutions, aiming instead for long-term resilience.

Exploring the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Petal Pod will provide deeper insights into the project's functionality and innovative approaches. The examination of these elements will reveal how thoughtful design can address urban challenges, support community dynamics, and enhance the quality of living in contemporary urban environments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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