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Repurposed Containers Integrating Green Spaces in Urban Living

Authors:
Francesco Niten Mattioli, Alex Scorrano
Repurposed Containers Integrating Green Spaces in Urban Living
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Repurposed shipping containers form a network of elevated pathways and green spaces that enhance urban living while promoting community engagement and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers form the main structure, enhancing sustainability.
02
Elevated cycle-pedestrian pathways promote safe and efficient movement through the site.
03
Green spaces are integrated throughout, fostering community interaction and ecological health.
04
Flexible design accommodates future modifications for evolving residential needs.
05
The project prioritizes accessibility, ensuring all spaces are user-friendly for pedestrians and cyclists.

NІSH is an architectural design that seeks to enhance urban living by incorporating nature within a bustling neighborhood. The project aims to create a space where community life flourishes, fostering connections among residents while encouraging a commitment to environmental health. Inspired by the balanced habitat of the Australian coral reef, NІSH translates these ecological principles into an urban setting, prioritizing green spaces alongside the built environment.

Design Concept and Green Spaces

The design focuses on restoring and integrating green areas throughout the community. By doing so, it creates opportunities for residents to engage with nature and each other. The presence of greenery contributes to the local ecosystem, making the area more inviting and beneficial for both social interaction and biodiversity. This thoughtful approach underscores the importance of considering environmental elements in urban planning.

Innovative Pathways

One notable aspect of NІSH is the introduction of elevated pathways for cyclists and pedestrians. These pathways allow for smooth movement across the area, minimizing the impact of cars and reducing congestion. By elevating foot and bike traffic, the design encourages a healthier lifestyle and enhances the safety of public spaces. This focus on accessible movement reflects a commitment to fostering a more sustainable and user-friendly urban environment.

Flexibility in Use

Flexibility plays a vital role in the design of NІSH. The layout has been carefully planned to accommodate future changes and expansions. This adaptability means that residential and commercial modules can develop according to community needs over time. By designing for change, the project ensures it can remain relevant and functional as the neighborhood evolves.

Repurposed Housing Modules

The design includes housing units made from containers that are sourced from the nearby commercial port. Using these materials demonstrates a focus on cost-effectiveness and sustainability. By repurposing containers, the project reduces waste while providing sturdy living spaces that meet modern demands. This approach aligns well with broader goals of minimizing ecological impact in construction.

Within NІSH, a network of landscaped areas and interconnected pathways brings the spirit of nature directly into urban life. This integration creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages people to enjoy outdoor spaces, fostering community ties in a balanced environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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