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Revitalizing Urban Living Through Wood Water Tanks in Manhattan

Author:
Jorge Cobo susperregui
Revitalizing Urban Living Through Wood Water Tanks in Manhattan

Project in-detail

Water tanks in Manhattan are reimagined as adaptable wooden living spaces that enhance urban density while offering innovative thermal control and sustainable design for modern residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Water tanks are converted into multifunctional living units within Manhattan’s urban fabric.
02
The project uses wood to optimize thermal performance and sustainability.
03
TANGRAM design principles promote flexible interior configurations.
04
Original water tank silhouettes are preserved to maintain skyline integrity.
05
The adaptation addresses modern housing demands in a historically dense area.

The design focuses on converting traditional water tanks into modern living spaces in Manhattan, New York. It aims to change the way these practical structures are perceived, creating residential areas that fit into the bustling urban environment. The approach highlights the need for adaptability and functionality in a city where space is limited.

Conceptual Framework

The idea centers on transforming water tanks from basic utility fixtures into livable units. By incorporating the essence of home within these structures, the design presents an innovative view on urban living. This approach is particularly significant in Manhattan, where maximizing limited space is essential for accommodating growing populations.

Geographical Context

Located in various Manhattan neighborhoods like the West Side, East Side, and Midtown, the design engages with the rich social fabric of the city. The thoughtful placement of these water tanks enhances their surroundings, adding value to the urban landscape while respecting the character of the area.

Material Selection

Wood serves as the main material for building the water tanks. This choice is practical, as wood is strong enough to handle the temperature changes common in urban settings. Using wood reflects a commitment to sustainability, showing an awareness of current environmental concerns while ensuring durability.

Design Integration

The design respects the original shape of the water tanks, minimizing any impact on the Manhattan skyline. This careful consideration preserves the tanks' established presence while creating more comfortable living spaces. The arrangement of rooms is influenced by the TANGRAM approach, promoting adaptable environments that can cater to a range of lifestyles and needs.

The end result is a thoughtful combination of traditional forms and modern living requirements. It tells a story of how urban housing can evolve, reflecting a practical solution that meets the needs of city dwellers.

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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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