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Rooftop Garden Enhances Vertical Living With Sustainable Wooden Slats and Metal Facades

Author:
Andrew Spaulding
Rooftop Garden Enhances Vertical Living With Sustainable Wooden Slats and Metal Facades

Project in-detail

A rooftop garden and double gallery design seamlessly integrate sustainable wooden slats and metal facades in a compact home that fosters community interaction while maximizing urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a double gallery design to enhance airflow and natural light within a compact footprint.
02
Incorporates a rooftop garden that promotes urban biodiversity and green living.
03
Features durable wooden slats combined with metal panels for a contemporary aesthetic.
04
Employs high-performance low-E glass to optimize energy efficiency and reduce heat gain.
05
Constructed with a focus on local materials, creating harmony with the surrounding environment.
The architectural project located at 8217-15 Apricot Street in New Orleans, Louisiana, presents a thoughtful interpretation of modern urban living through the design of the Double Gallery Micro Home. This residential structure exemplifies the integration of contemporary architectural ideas with the traditional house typology that characterizes much of New Orleans. The design is focused on maximizing livable space within a compact footprint, reflecting the increasing need for efficient housing solutions in urban environments.

The essence of this project lies in its ability to represent modernity while paying homage to the cultural heritage of its geographical location. The Double Gallery design not only fosters an enhanced living experience but also encourages interaction and connectivity among its inhabitants. By featuring a vertical arrangement of spaces, the architecture optimizes the lot's narrow dimensions, allowing for both privacy and community engagement, which is a key aspect of New Orleans' historic residential architecture.

Functionally, the Double Gallery Micro Home is designed to accommodate everyday living necessities while promoting a sustainable lifestyle. The layout consists of an open-concept ground level that includes living and kitchen areas, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. A terrace extends from this area, providing a natural extension of the home that encourages outdoor relaxation and socialization. The upper floor is dedicated to private quarters, strategically positioned to maximize natural light and ventilation through well-placed windows and thoughtfully designed rooms. This arrangement not only enhances the living experience but also contributes positively to the overall energy efficiency of the home.

The unique design approaches evident in this project set it apart. One notable aspect is the incorporation of a double gallery, a feature that not only improves airflow and light but also serves a social purpose in fostering community ties. This architectural choice reflects an understanding of the importance of interpersonal connections in residential design. Additionally, the structure is adorned with layered façade elements that create an engaging visual rhythm, differentiating it from the typical starkness often found in modern constructions. The use of durable materials such as wooden slats and metal panels further enhances the design’s longevity and sustainability, establishing a clear relationship between the building and its environment.

Sustainability is a fundamental principle woven throughout the design. The roof features solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to promote eco-friendly living. The architectural decisions favor environmentally responsible materials, which not only respect local resources but also exhibit a commitment to reducing the project’s ecological footprint. Moreover, the rooftop garden serves both aesthetic and ecological functions, contributing to urban greening efforts and providing residents with a tranquil space amid the bustling city.

Overall, the Double Gallery Micro Home serves as a model for future residential projects that seek to address urban housing challenges without sacrificing character or community. This design embodies a balanced approach to sustainability, cultural respect, and modern living, illustrating how architecture can respond to the needs of contemporary society while honoring its historical context. For those interested in delving deeper into this project, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements will provide valuable insights into the thoughtful processes underpinning this distinctive home.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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