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Reimagining Urban Living With Stacked Shipping Containers and Concrete Solutions

Author:
Cory Miller
Reimagining Urban Living With Stacked Shipping Containers and Concrete Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular system of stacked shipping containers and reinforced concrete, this development addresses urban housing needs while promoting community interaction through shared spaces and diverse unit configurations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design with stacked shipping containers for efficient vertical living.
02
Incorporates large windows to enhance natural light and energy efficiency.
03
Features communal spaces on the ground floor to promote resident interaction.
04
Employs reinforced concrete for structural stability and durability.
05
Offers diverse unit configurations to accommodate various demographics and needs.
The presented project is an innovative affordable housing development located in the Lower East Side of New York City. The architectural design merges sustainability and urban functionality through the use of modular construction methods. The building consists primarily of stacked shipping containers, arranged above a robust concrete base to create a multi-story residential complex that effectively addresses the need for housing in a high-density area.

The project serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it provides essential living spaces for various demographics, ensuring affordability without compromising quality. Secondly, it fosters community interaction through designated shared spaces, including a restaurant and community rooms, designed to enhance neighborhood engagement and social cohesion.

Unique Design Approaches

The design incorporates a hybrid approach by utilizing shipping containers as primary residential units. This method not only reduces construction costs but also minimizes environmental impact through the recycling of materials. The shipping containers are strategically stacked to optimize vertical space, allowing for a diverse range of unit configurations to cater to a variety of residents' needs.

Attention to detail is paramount in this project. Large windows are designed into each container unit to maximize natural light, creating an open and inviting atmosphere for residents. The use of wood flooring within the containers adds a layer of warmth and comfort, making the units feel more like home.

The project distinguishes itself through its emphasis on communal living. The integration of outdoor communal spaces elevates the living experience by providing areas for relaxation and social interaction, crucially enhancing residents’ quality of life. The design promotes a sense of community and encourages residents to actively engage with their surroundings, thereby contributing to a healthier urban environment.

Architectural Elements

The structural components of the building include a combination of shipping containers and reinforced concrete, providing durability and stability. The concrete base ensures structural integrity for the vertical stacking of containers, while the use of precast concrete elements in the floors and beams facilitates efficient construction practices.

The design adheres to urban zoning regulations, optimizing land use while maintaining a balance between built and open spaces. The project site layout thoughtfully considers pedestrian accessibility and integration with the existing urban fabric, promoting connectivity within the neighborhood.

For more insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that define this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, where further details can enhance understanding of its architectural significance and community impact.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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