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Reimagining Plattenbau With Recycled Brick and Flexible Living Spaces

Authors:
Sophie Ho, Mhairi Dickie, Runqian Lu
Reimagining Plattenbau With Recycled Brick and Flexible Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled brick and adaptable movable walls, this revitalization of Plattenbau housing in East Berlin creates flexible living spaces that foster community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled brick to maintain historical continuity with the Plattenbau typology.
02
Incorporates adaptable movable walls for customizable interior configurations.
03
Features communal gardens promoting resident interaction and ecological benefits.
04
Employs prefabrication techniques to optimize construction efficiency and reduce waste.
05
Integrates greenery and climbing plants to enhance urban biodiversity and air quality.
"Re-Activating the Plattenbau" is an architectural project aimed at transforming post-war Plattenbau housing in East Berlin. This intervention focuses on revitalizing and reinterpreting a housing typology that has defined much of the city’s residential landscape. It strives to enhance community interaction while addressing contemporary housing needs through a careful integration of sustainability principles and adaptable design features.

The primary function of this project is to provide flexible living spaces that promote social connectivity among residents. The design creates a network of communal areas interspersed with private homes, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences in urban environments. The layout employs modular blocks arranged to encourage pedestrian movement and outdoor activities, enhancing the livability of the overall site.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of the design is its emphasis on adaptability. Interior spaces are configurable, allowing residents to modify room sizes and functions according to personal preferences or family needs. This adaptability is facilitated by movable walls and multifunctional furniture, responding to the evolving requirements of urban living.

The architectural materiality further distinguishes the project. It utilizes recycled brick for the façade, which connects the new design with historical references while minimizing environmental impact. Structural support is provided by steel, chosen for its strength and flexibility, allowing for innovative configurations. Additionally, prefabricated units streamline construction processes, reducing waste and construction time. The integration of greenery, including planters and climbing vegetation, not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to environmental benefits such as improved air quality.

Sustainable Design Features

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project. By leveraging eco-friendly materials and construction techniques, the design aligns with contemporary environmental standards while addressing urban density challenges. The use of recycled materials underscores a commitment to resource efficiency and circular economy principles.

The project also emphasizes the importance of communal spaces designed to foster social interaction. Features such as shared gardens and gathering areas are strategically placed to encourage community engagement, creating a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere. This holistic approach to both private and communal living reflects a deeper understanding of urban life today.

Those interested in a deeper understanding of "Re-Activating the Plattenbau" are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provide further insights into the innovative ideas and thoughtful considerations that have shaped this project.
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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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