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Reversible Steel Structures Featuring Community-Focused Spaces

Author:
Jingxin Xu
Reversible Steel Structures Featuring Community-Focused Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with reversible steel structures and playful design elements inspired by candy, the development provides affordable housing tailored for students and retirees, promoting community interaction and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reversible structural design allows for easy modifications and adaptability over time.
02
The building incorporates playful food-inspired elements that enhance community interaction.
03
Dedicated spaces for candy tasting and educational areas foster community engagement.
04
Two-level framework ensures effective load transfer and structural integrity.
05
Target demographic includes both students and retirees, addressing diverse living needs.

Affordable housing is addressed through reversible building designs that cater to the changing needs of residents. Located in an urban area, the design emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, allowing for spaces to be modified over time. This approach helps residents avoid the added cost of acquiring additional properties, thereby promoting economic efficiency and improving the quality of life.

Design Concept

The design features a two-level structural system, where the primary framework supports the weight of the building. This primary structure is integral in transferring loads to a secondary structure that is designed for detachability and growth. This modular approach empowers residents to customize their living spaces as their needs evolve, ensuring the design remains relevant over time.

Visual Identity

Inspired by candy and the lively atmosphere of markets, the building integrates playful elements to engage the community. This focus on visual interplay creates an inviting environment that encourages social interaction among residents. By incorporating food-related motifs, the design fosters a sense of belonging, reminiscent of the communal experience found in bustling market spaces.

Programmatic Elements

The design targets a diverse group of residents, particularly students and retirees, through a range of programmatic features. Included are a candy tasting shop, a coffee shop, and a medical care center that serves both the building's inhabitants and the surrounding community. Additionally, libraries and study rooms situated on the upper floors contribute to a supportive environment for learning and collaboration.

Construction and Materials

The construction process involves several technical stages, including foundational work and structural detailing. Steel is employed for the building's support, combined with reinforced concrete that enhances stability and durability. These materials work together to create a reliable framework that fulfills the functional requirements of the design.

Detailed features of the façade showcase playful elements inspired by food motifs and abstract forms, adding visual interest while ensuring structural integrity. This careful consideration of design and functionality provides a meaningful contribution to the community it serves.

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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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