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Repurposed Steel Framework With Green Roofs and Locally Sourced Timber for Sustainable Living

Authors:
James Armstrong, Camila Sanchez rodriguez, Issy Rice, Amy Graham
Repurposed Steel Framework With Green Roofs and Locally Sourced Timber for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a repurposed steel framework and green roofs, the design integrates locally sourced timber to create a sustainable residential environment that promotes community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design enabling flexible unit configurations to adapt to varying family sizes.
02
Incorporates recycled steel for structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features green roofs that enhance biodiversity and improve thermal performance.
04
Integrates locally sourced timber for both aesthetic warmth and sustainability.
05
Includes communal gardens designed to foster interaction among residents.
The project "Scaffale" is a modular affordable housing initiative located in Milan, designed to address the urban challenges of increasing population density and insufficient affordable living options. This architectural endeavor emphasizes sustainability, community interaction, and the adaptive reuse of space within a rapidly developing city. The design intends to repurpose underutilized urban lots, transforming them into functional living environments that cater to various demographics, ultimately fostering a sense of community.

Unique Modular Design Features

Distinctive to the "Scaffale" project is its modular design approach, which allows flexibility in unit configurations. Each housing module can be customized to meet the needs of individual families or groups, providing options for one to three-bedroom layouts. The vertical stacking of these modules creates diverse and dynamic facade expressions while maximizing land use efficiency. The architectural design also promotes natural light and ventilation with strategically positioned windows and open-air corridors, enhancing the livability of the units.

Sustainability plays a critical role in the project. Recycled steel forms the structural framework, providing a durable and eco-friendly base. Locally sourced timber is incorporated into the design to minimize the environmental impact and achieve a balance between modern aesthetics and natural materials. Energy-efficient insulated panels contribute to the thermal performance of the building, while green roof systems encourage biodiversity and support urban greening initiatives. These sustainable design elements collectively reduce energy dependency and improve the overall environmental footprint of the project.

Community-Centric Spaces

The design integrates communal areas on the ground floor, serving as shared spaces for residents. These areas are intended to foster social interaction and promote community wellbeing, featuring gardens and recreational spaces that encourage outdoor engagement. By designing these communal environments, "Scaffale" seeks to bridge the gap between private living spaces and shared experiences, cultivating a cohesive residential community.

Overall, the "Scaffale" project stands out due to its comprehensive approach to affordable housing, emphasizing adaptability, sustainability, and social interaction. This initiative provides a model for modern urban living that can be replicated in various contexts. For further details, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation for a deeper understanding of the design and its implications.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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