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Reimagining Urban Living Through Modular Design and Recycled Plastic Integration

Authors:
Alieth Barbet, Marie Chevrier
Reimagining Urban Living Through Modular Design and Recycled Plastic Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled plastic bottles and modular design, the initiative transforms traditional parking spaces into adaptable urban housing that promotes sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project repurposes approximately 40 recycled plastic bottles per unit for insulation, promoting waste reduction.
02
Modular design allows for flexible configurations, adapting to various resident needs over time.
03
Exterior cladding incorporates recycled plastic sheets, enhancing both insulation and environmental responsibility.
04
Communal outdoor spaces foster interaction among residents, emphasizing community engagement.
05
The project addresses urban density by transforming underutilized parking spaces into functional living units.
The "Car to Cradle" project is a thoughtful and contemporary architectural initiative designed to transform urban living in Sydney, Australia, by repurposing parking spaces into modular housing units. This innovative approach reflects a growing awareness of sustainability and the need for community-oriented solutions in densely populated areas. The project serves as a practical response to the challenges of urbanization, shifting the focus from car-centric designs to more inclusive, adaptable living spaces that cater to a variety of needs.

At its core, this project represents a significant shift in architectural thinking, moving toward a model that prioritizes environmental sustainability while maximizing the efficient use of space. By utilizing the footprint of conventional parking areas, the design fosters urban density without sacrificing livability. The function of the housing units is multi-fold; they provide affordable accommodation, encourage social interaction among residents, and integrate green practices that contribute to the overall health of the environment.

The design incorporates a range of unique materials, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the project's ecological goals. The use of recycled plastic bottles as insulation materials serves to minimize waste while ensuring energy efficiency. This choice of materials extends to other components of the project, such as crushed rubber from recycled tires used in wall construction, showcasing a commitment to repurposing everyday materials in creative ways. The inclusion of wooden panels helps achieve structural integrity while maintaining a lightweight profile, ensuring ease of installation.

Importantly, the exterior cladding employs recycled plastic sheets that provide thermal insulation properties, aiding in the overall energy conservation strategy of the project. Additionally, the design prioritizes natural materials and biophilic elements, including rooftop greenery, which enhances biodiversity and brings nature closer to urban inhabitants. These choices reflect a deeper understanding of how architecture can respond to both human and ecological needs.

The housing units are designed with modularity in mind, allowing flexibility in layout and the potential for easy reconfiguration as resident needs change over time. This adaptability is particularly relevant in urban environments where space is at a premium, enabling families, young couples, and shared households to find suitable accommodations that can evolve with them. The integration of communal outdoor spaces encourages residents to engage with one another, fostering a vibrant community feel that is often missing in modern urban planning.

The project is distinguished further by its future-oriented approach to technology. Anticipating trends in urban living, it proposes solutions such as smart device compatibility and incorporates planning for drone delivery systems. This not only enhances the convenience of living in these units but also positions the project to remain relevant in a rapidly changing urban landscape.

Overall, the "Car to Cradle" project presents a compelling vision for the future of architecture in urban settings. Its focus on sustainability, community, and adaptability provides a roadmap for how cities can evolve and respond to pressing challenges. Readers interested in exploring the nuances and intricacies of this project are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, where a wealth of information awaits. By examining these architectural ideas closely, one can gain deeper insights into how this project exemplifies a modern approach to urban living and architectural innovation.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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