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Shipping Container Community Under Elevated Transit Structure

Shipping Container Community Under Elevated Transit Structure
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Utilizing modular shipping containers stacked beneath an elevated transit station, this residential complex offers adaptable living spaces that promote community interaction within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Containers are configured at varying angles to create dynamic spatial experiences.
02
The project integrates communal gardens within the elevated transit space.
03
Natural ventilation is optimized through strategic window placements across all units.
04
Adaptable living configurations allow for personalized resident modifications.
05
Sustainable practices are emphasized through efficient energy systems and green spaces.

### Project Overview

SORAE is a residential complex situated beneath the elevated Soraepogu Station in Incheon, South Korea. The design aims to address urban density and housing shortages by utilizing shipping containers, allowing for a modular construction that promotes flexibility and adaptability. This approach facilitates sustainable living by maximizing the potential of an underutilized area, transforming it into a community hub that fosters social interaction and engagement among residents and nearby community members.

### Spatial and Structural Strategy

The spatial arrangement of SORAE leverages the elevated site, creating a dynamic interplay between public transport access and residential living. Shipping containers are strategically positioned at varied angles to establish an organic, playful environment. The vibrant pink exteriors serve not only as a visual identifier but also as a challenge to conventional urban design aesthetics. The layout includes three levels, with the first floor dedicated to communal amenities and open spaces, while the upper levels offer versatile residential units that can be adjusted to fit the needs of different occupants.

### Material Integration and Sustainability

Key materials within the project include steel for durability, glass for natural lighting and accessibility, and concrete for resilient pathways. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and functionality, aligning with contemporary building standards. The design incorporates natural ventilation techniques and green spaces, such as rooftop gardens and landscaped communal areas, which enhance energy efficiency and promote biodiversity. This integration of sustainable practices supports the overall intent of fostering an environmentally responsible residential environment.

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
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