Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Repurposed Masonry and Glass Facade Enhances Community Living Through Flexible Timber Housing

Authors:
Hugo Burgos, Mina Aziz
Repurposed Masonry and Glass Facade Enhances Community Living Through Flexible Timber Housing

Project in-detail

Employing a blend of repurposed masonry and a transparent glass facade, this residential development utilizes flexible timber modules to create an adaptable living environment for students in the heart of Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed masonry elements from the original hospital are integrated into the new design.
02
The facade features extensive use of glass to enhance natural lighting throughout the space.
03
Modular timber units allow for flexible configurations and communal living arrangements.
04
Ground-floor amenities promote public interaction and community engagement.
05
Sustainable materials include locally sourced materials that minimize environmental impact.
The architectural project B² in the Ruin is situated in Rome, transforming the abandoned San Giacomo hospital into a vibrant student housing facility. This design addresses the growing need for affordable living spaces while preserving the historical identity of the site. The project creatively integrates elements of the existing structure with modern architectural features to foster a sense of community and continuity.

Unique Design Approaches and Community Integration

The design approach emphasizes the preservation of historical elements while introducing modular, flexible living units. The project preserves significant portions of the original hospital facade, establishing a dialogue between the old and the new. This integration contributes to the site's historical context, allowing the building to maintain its narrative within the cityscape.

The residential units are designed with adaptability in mind, accommodating various living arrangements that cater to single students and small families. These living pods are configured to encourage communal living, with shared facilities like kitchens, lounges, and study areas. This layout promotes social interaction among residents and enhances community engagement.

Public accessibility is a vital aspect of the design, with ground-floor amenities that include a bookstore, café, game room, and market. These spaces are intended for both residents and the general public, breaking down barriers and inviting the community to interact with the environment. This thoughtful integration enhances the building's role as a social hub, contributing significantly to the urban fabric of the area.

Architectural Material and Structural Considerations

The selection of materials reflects a balance between tradition and modernity, utilizing masonry for the primary structure to honor the site's historical character. Glass features in the façade create transparency and lightness, allowing for visual connectivity between the interior and exterior spaces. Wood is applied as a versatile interior element, enhancing comfort and offering acoustic benefits. Aluminum is used in window frames and cladding, providing a contemporary touch that aligns with the overall design aesthetic.

This strategic use of materials not only addresses functional requirements but also contributes to the building's identity. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural decisions can create a meaningful dialogue between past and present while accommodating contemporary needs.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of B² in the Ruin, the detailed project presentation is available for review. This will provide greater insights into the architectural ideas behind the project and its significance within the context of urban development in Rome.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy