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Reflective Steel Façade in a Community-Driven Residential Complex

Authors:
David Montoya, Samantha Tutillo, Paola Armas
Reflective Steel Façade in a Community-Driven Residential Complex

Project in-detail

A reflective steel façade defines a four-story residential structure designed for adaptability and community engagement, incorporating natural light and sustainable energy solutions for modern urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective steel façade enhances environmental responsiveness.
02
Generous voids promote natural light throughout living spaces.
03
Solar heating systems reduce reliance on traditional energy.
04
Four-story structure designed for future adaptability.
05
Distinct integration of private and communal living areas.

The design focuses on the concept of communal living, with an emphasis on participation and adaptability. Set in an urban area, it aims to improve the quality of life for its residents by allowing homeowners to collaboratively design their apartments. The initiative recognizes the increasing importance of mental well-being by addressing common issues such as stress and anxiety through community engagement and support.

Design Concept
The layout is influenced by Roman urbanism, emphasizing a balance between social interaction and individual privacy. Located near public transportation, the building enhances accessibility and encourages a vibrant community. This strategic positioning allows residents to engage easily with both their neighborhood and the wider city.

Structural Framework
The building consists of four stories, designed to be adaptable to the changing needs of its residents. Its layout features a mix of private units and shared spaces, fostering a sense of connection among occupants. Each apartment has distinct access, which supports individuality while still promoting community ties.

Natural Light and Environmental Integration
Generous voids are incorporated into the design, allowing natural light to fill the living spaces. This focus on daylight creates a stronger connection to the outside environment, which is essential for the well-being of residents. The façade, built with a reflective steel grid, adds visual interest and helps the building respond to its surroundings throughout the day.

Sustainability Measures
Sustainability is a key priority in the design. The project includes solar heating systems for kitchens and showers, along with a battery setup that allows independence from traditional electricity sources. These features contribute to an energy-efficient living environment that anticipates future urban challenges.

The reflective steel façade not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also creates a dynamic interaction with natural light, resulting in a living surface that changes with the light and environment. This constant variation adds depth and character to the overall design.

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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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