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Reinforced Concrete Core with Steel Exoskeleton for Urban Mobility

Authors:
Robert Grasshoff, Tamara Koehler
Reinforced Concrete Core with Steel Exoskeleton for Urban Mobility

Project in-detail

A reinforced concrete core supports a steel exoskeleton, facilitating a multi-level hub for urban mobility with integrated drone transport stations and mixed-use spaces in central London.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reinforced concrete core enhances structural stability for high-rise living.
02
Steel exoskeleton allows for efficient load distribution and unique façade design.
03
Drone stations integrated at multiple levels for improved urban transport connectivity.
04
Mixed-use spaces include retail, logistics, and emergency services in one structure.
05
Photovoltaic elements installed on façades to generate renewable energy.

The HIVE is a project situated in London, designed to tackle urban challenges such as overcrowding, air pollution, and an outdated transport system. The project promotes a vertical way of living and working, with the aim of providing practical solutions that improve daily life for residents. At the heart of the design is a system of flying passenger drones that aims to ease congestion in the busy city and enhance overall connectivity.

Structural Design
The building rises to about 180 meters, showcasing a thoughtful structural approach. Its core is made from reinforced concrete, which creates a stable foundation for the height of the structure. Surrounding the core, a steel exoskeleton defines the exterior shape, adding strength while contributing to the overall design. A diagrid construction method is used to enhance the load-bearing capacity, which helps to minimize material use without sacrificing strength.

Mixed-Use Integration
The HIVE incorporates a mix of functions within its design. It includes office spaces, retail venues, and essential services under one roof. Among its distinct features are drone repair stations and automated logistics facilities. This combination is intended to serve the varied needs of the community, promote local job creation, and reduce the necessity for long commutes, thereby improving the quality of life.

Sustainability Measures
Sustainability plays an important role in the design of The HIVE. Photovoltaic panels are integrated into the facades to produce renewable energy and improve efficiency. Additionally, a rainwater collection system is part of the strategy, enabling the reuse of water and reducing environmental impact. Such measures highlight a focus on eco-friendly practices within the urban setting.

Urban Mobility Solutions
One significant aspect of The HIVE is its focus on improving urban mobility. The inclusion of drone transport stations allows residents to make easy use of these flying services for travel across the city. A dedicated smartphone application facilitates the booking of drone rides, adding an element of convenience for users. This approach aims to enhance accessibility and offer new options for commuting within the urban landscape.

The design features a unique facade, characterized by a diagrid pattern that creates an engaging play of light and shadow on its surface. This element adds visual interest and alters perceptions based on where one stands in the city.

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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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