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Residential community featuring reclaimed brick and renewable energy systems in a historic urban setting

Authors:
Aaron Weinert, Josh Daigle, Joseph Scheuermann
Residential community featuring reclaimed brick and renewable energy systems in a historic urban setting

Project in-detail

Nestled along the historic canals of Lowell, this residential community blends reclaimed brick and black steel with innovative renewable energy systems, offering sustainable living spaces that honor the city’s industrial heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project incorporates a water wheel generator that pays homage to the historical machinery of Lowell’s mill era while providing renewable energy for the community.
02
Each residence is built with reclaimed brick from local demolished structures, enhancing the project's sustainability and connection to the city's heritage.
03
The design features adaptable floor plans that allow residents to customize their living spaces according to changing needs, promoting long-term usability.
04
A rooftop garden is included in every unit, enabling residents to grow their own produce while contributing to urban biodiversity.
05
The blend of black steel accents with warm wood elements creates a contemporary aesthetic that respects the historical context of the surrounding area.
The Micro Mill project represents a thoughtful convergence of architecture and sustainability, situated in Lowell, Massachusetts, a city steeped in industrial history. This design not only addresses the pressing need for sustainable housing solutions but also aims to breathe new life into the remnants of the city’s storied past. The architecture of the Micro Mill reflects a commitment to adaptive reuse, allowing it to serve as both a residence and a testament to the region's historical narrative.

Functionally, the Micro Mill is designed to cater to individuals and small families seeking compact yet comfortable living spaces. The layout of the project prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing quality of life. Each unit is tailored to optimize space while incorporating modern amenities, underscoring a sustainable lifestyle. The project promotes a sense of community, with communal gardens and shared spaces encouraging interaction among residents, fostering a neighborhood atmosphere within the urban setting.

The architectural design integrates carefully selected materials that resonate with Lowell’s historical context. The use of brick pays homage to the traditional mill buildings, evoking a sense of continuity with the city’s architectural heritage. Concrete is employed for its robustness, while black steel accents reinforce the contemporary industrial aesthetic that characterizes the Micro Mill. Wood is utilized not only for its sustainability but also for the warmth it brings to the living environment. These materials are harmoniously combined, creating visual and tactile textures that reflect a modern yet respectful approach to architecture.

Unique design approaches enhance the overall impact of the Micro Mill project. One notable feature is its commitment to renewable energy systems. Solar panels are strategically placed to harness sunlight, and a water wheel, reminiscent of the historical machinery that once powered the mills, generates electricity. This blend of historic reference and modern technology exemplifies the project’s innovative spirit and dedication to ecological responsibility.

Furthermore, the Micro Mill design includes adaptable living spaces. This flexibility allows residents to reconfigure their homes to meet evolving needs, whether that entails creating a quiet office nook, expanding family areas, or utilizing outdoor spaces for gardening or relaxation. The relationship between indoor and outdoor environments is carefully curated through the inclusion of roof gardens and planters, seamlessly integrating nature into the living experience.

The overall concept of the Micro Mill transcends mere housing; it stands as a model of how architecture can engage with community revitalization. It emphasizes the importance of historical context, sustainability, and innovative design. By choosing to repurpose the site of old mills, the project not only honors Lowell’s heritage but also sets a precedent for future developments aiming to combine history with modern living.

Readers interested in a deeper exploration of the project are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas presented. These elements provide comprehensive insights into the Micro Mill’s intricate design and its thoughtful response to the challenges of contemporary urban living.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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