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Recycled Waste Transformed into Modular Living Cells for Urban Community

Authors:
Olga Sizoy, Elizaveta Nikolskaya
Recycled Waste Transformed into Modular Living Cells for Urban Community

Project in-detail

Recycling construction waste into modular living cells, the design addresses urban isolation while creating a sustainable community layout in Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled materials are central to the construction, focusing on waste repurposing.
02
3D printing technology enables real-time adaptability of living units to site conditions.
03
Modular living cells foster social interaction and community among residents.
04
The design incorporates shared amenities to enhance communal living experiences.
05
Urban infill strategies increase density while addressing environmental challenges in Rome.

The concept of Digital Cave reconsiders how people can live together in a shared space. Located in Rome, a city dealing with serious pollution issues, the design aims to encourage community and reduce feelings of isolation. The approach combines modern technology with a focus on recycling, creating adaptable living spaces that meet the needs of residents while turning waste into a resource.

Sustainable Design Approach

At the heart of Digital Cave is a commitment to sustainability. By using recycled materials, especially construction waste, the design reduces environmental impact. A 3D printer plays a crucial role, allowing for the construction of living units and shared spaces in a way that minimizes waste. This innovative use of materials shifts the focus from traditional building methods, promoting a more responsible approach to urban development.

Technological Integration

Advanced technology is central to the design process. The 3D printer adapts to the specific conditions of the site, which helps to optimize the layout of living spaces. Technology enables the creation of flexible environments that can change as community needs evolve. Design software analyzes how spaces will be used, ensuring that they enhance social interaction while remaining functional.

Community-Centric Amenities

The design includes various shared amenities such as libraries, gyms, kitchens, and rest areas. These spaces are more than just facilities; they serve as hubs for residents to connect and collaborate. A mobile application further supports community life by streamlining access to shared resources and utilities. It invites engagement among residents, enhancing the sense of belonging.

Architectural Typologies

Digital Cave features multiple housing types, including infill, scattered, and tower designs. Each is adaptable to its surroundings and serves a specific purpose within the community layout. The arrangement emphasizes both shared and private spaces, allowing for personal privacy alongside opportunities for socializing. It creates a balanced environment where individuals can thrive collectively.

Digital Cave offers a thoughtful response to the challenges of modern urban living while emphasizing sustainability, technology, and community. Its design reflects a commitment to fostering connections among residents, creating a habitat that meets both social and environmental needs.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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