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Reimagining Vacant Spaces With Recycled Materials And Modular Housing Solutions

Authors:
Amrita Shad, Ben Glazebrook
Reimagining Vacant Spaces With Recycled Materials And Modular Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular units crafted from recycled materials, this design transforms a former office block into a flexible community-focused housing solution that addresses urban housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be easily reconfigured for diverse living arrangements.
02
The design incorporates recycled materials to minimize environmental impact.
03
Colorful canopies serve both aesthetic and functional purposes in communal spaces.
04
Shared gardens promote resident interaction and community involvement.
05
Concrete aesthetics complement the warmth of timber elements throughout the project.
Bürowächter is an architectural project located in Berlin, designed to provide temporary housing solutions within an evolving urban environment. The project utilizes a former office block, showcasing a commitment to adaptive reuse while addressing the urgent need for housing in the city. Bürowächter incorporates modular units that are flexible in configuration, allowing for a diverse range of living arrangements to accommodate various household sizes. The project aims to create a functional and welcoming space for residents facing housing instability.

Community Interaction and Design Approach

A defining feature of Bürowächter is its focus on community engagement. The design includes ample communal areas that encourage social interaction among residents. Wide corridors and shared green spaces serve as transitional zones, facilitating both movement and connection. The modular housing units, measuring 2x2 meters, enable residents to personalize their living spaces while fostering a sense of ownership. The integration of common amenities, such as pop-up shops and communal gardens, enhances the residential experience by promoting collaboration and participation among inhabitants.

Sustainable Practices and Materiality

Bürowächter prioritizes sustainability through the use of recycled building materials, which minimizes the environmental impact of construction. Concrete structures are left exposed in common areas, providing a tactile contrast to the lighter, more colorful modular units. Canopies and shelters made from lightweight, durable materials optimally balance aesthetics with functionality. The adaptability of the design ensures that units can be easily relocated or reshaped to meet evolving needs. This approach not only affirms a commitment to sustainability but also embodies innovative architectural ideas that challenge traditional notions of temporary housing.

Explore the project presentation for a detailed analysis of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that illustrate the unique features of Bürowächter. Delve deeper into the architectural ideas that underpin this project to understand its comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges of temporary housing in urban contexts.
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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
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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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