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Repurposed Shipping Containers Shaping Community Engagement in Urban Living

Authors:
Thomas Kirk iii, Alejandro Peña, Nicholas Hernandez
Repurposed Shipping Containers Shaping Community Engagement in Urban Living

Project in-detail

Repurposed shipping containers form a modular living environment that fosters community interaction while addressing urban housing needs in a densely populated setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers serve as the primary structural element.
02
Modular design allows for customizable living configurations.
03
Undulating facades maximize natural light and visual engagement.
04
Integration of greenery enhances urban livability and well-being.
05
Centralized mechanical spaces support efficient vertical stacking.

Block Party presents a fresh approach to urban living by focusing on adaptable housing solutions. This design addresses the challenges posed by growing population densities and the complexities of modern cities. By using modular units constructed from reused shipping containers, it aims to create functional living spaces that connect with their surroundings while being environmentally conscious.

Modular Configuration

The design comprises three different modules, each offering its own layout to meet various resident needs. Module 1 is a one-story unit that measures 45ft by 53ft. It includes important areas such as the kitchen, living space, and mechanical facilities. Module 2 expands on this concept with a two-story arrangement made from two 45ft containers, allowing for flexible use with spaces designated for dining, bathing, and cooking. Module 3 further develops this idea with a two-story configuration that features two 40ft containers alongside a vertical 20ft space, offering additional areas for living, studying, and bathing.

Interaction with Urban Context

The project features undulating facades that create voids to maximize natural light while enhancing engagement with the street. These design elements promote a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for residents and pedestrians to interact. Thoughtful circulation paths ensure that there is a strong connection between public areas and private living spaces, effectively utilizing limited urban land.

Sustainability and Materiality

Reused shipping containers are the primary structural element, highlighting a commitment to sustainability through the repurposing of materials. This choice reduces waste and enhances the architectural character of the design. The project includes 12" floor systems that facilitate easy access and accommodate essential mechanical systems. Consideration for wind and sun paths also improves energy efficiency, thus addressing the needs of contemporary building practices.

Integration of Greenery

The design integrates greenery, enhancing the livability of the urban environment and bringing natural elements into the everyday experience. Landscaped areas encourage residents to connect with nature, promoting a sense of well-being. This inclusion of vegetation alongside the modular structures creates a visually interesting environment that underscores the commitment to sustainable urban living.

The project culminates in its distinct facade, which invites people in while fostering a sense of community. It encourages residents and visitors alike to engage with the lively urban life surrounding Block Party, creating connections that enhance overall quality of living.

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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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