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Repurposed Steel and Composite Panels Create Sustainable Living Along the Huron River

Author:
Nathan Loree
Repurposed Steel and Composite Panels Create Sustainable Living Along the Huron River

Project in-detail

Utilizing reclaimed steel and advanced composite panels, this residential design integrates sustainable practices into the urban fabric of Port Huron, offering functional living spaces along the Huron River.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes reclaimed steel from decommissioned bridges to create structural integrity and a connection to the local history.
02
Incorporates digitally fabricated 3-layer composite panels for enhanced energy efficiency and natural light.
03
Features a modular design allowing flexibility for future adaptations based on community needs.
04
Integrates wave energy converters to generate sustainable power from the Huron River currents.
05
Emphasizes ecological design by strategically elevating the structure to mitigate flood risks.

## Project Overview

Located in Port Huron, Michigan, the "Bridges to Nowhere" initiative addresses the urgent issue of decommissioned historic bridges in the region. The project focuses on the preservation and relocation of these structures through innovative design, seeking to repurpose their components into viable living spaces. This endeavor emphasizes sustainability, historical preservation, and community revitalization along the Huron River, aiming to enrich the urban landscape.

## Material Utilization and Adaptive Reuse

Central to the Frith Street Bridge House is the concept of adaptive reuse, employing materials sourced from the decommissioned bridges to create a connection to the area's historical infrastructure. The structure predominantly utilizes repurposed steel for its framework, which not only provides durability but also supports local heritage. Complementary materials such as digitally fabricated composite panels enhance energy efficiency while facilitating natural light penetration, contributing to the overall sustainability objectives of the design. The use of concrete for foundational elements ensures stability, while expansive glass panels foster a visual relationship with the Huron River.

## Spatial Organization and Modularity

The internal configuration of the Frith Street Bridge House is meticulously planned to maximize functionality within a modular framework. This design allows for versatile living arrangements that can adapt to changing community needs over time. A prefabricated floor module incorporates wave energy converters, utilizing the river's current for energy generation and offering an educational component on sustainable technologies. Internally, designated areas for bedrooms, bathrooms, and open living spaces promote comfort and social interaction, while a dedicated utility core efficiently integrates essential systems. These elements collectively support a coherent living experience in alignment with contemporary housing challenges.

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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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