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Spherical Living Units Crafted From Steel and Glass With Integrated Greenery for Urban Community Space

Authors:
Subin Yang, Minsuk Oh, Hyunsu Sim
Spherical Living Units Crafted From Steel and Glass With Integrated Greenery for Urban Community Space

Project in-detail

Constructed from modular spherical units of steel and glass, this urban habitat integrates greenery and a unique central elevator to foster community interaction within a sustainable residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a unique combination of spherical units for flexible living arrangements.
02
Incorporates a centrally located elevator that serves as a social hub for residents.
03
Features extensive use of glass panels to enhance natural lighting and transparency.
04
Integrated rooftop gardens contribute to urban greening and biodiversity.
05
Utilizes a durable steel framework designed for long-term urban resilience.

The Houselevator project emerges as a novel approach to urban living, integrating verticality and modularity into its architectural framework. This project presents a comprehensive solution to the challenges posed by urban density, functioning as both a housing and community space. The design is characterized by an arrangement of spherical units that connect through a central elevator shaft, facilitating mobility and interaction among residents.

Innovative Structural Design

What sets the Houselevator apart from traditional residential buildings is its focus on modular architecture. The use of spherical units allows for flexible living arrangements that can adapt over time to meet the changing needs of occupants. This modularity not only optimizes space but also provides a unique aesthetic that differentiates it from conventional rectangular forms seen in similar projects. The arrangement of these units promotes community engagement, as residents experience a fluid connection between living spaces and communal areas.

The central elevator functions beyond mere transportation; it serves as a conduit for social exchange, encouraging residents to interact and occupy shared spaces. By situating communal amenities, such as recreational areas and rooftop gardens, throughout the vertical layout, the design ensures that community life is an integral part of the residential experience.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The materiality of the Houselevator reflects both sustainability and durability. Steel forms the structural framework, offering strength while minimizing the spatial footprint. Glass panels enhance transparency and amplify natural light, creating a sense of openness within the residential units. Reinforced concrete is utilized in the foundational elements, providing stability. Additionally, the incorporation of organic greenery is carefully considered, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality within the urban context. This approach aligns with contemporary architectural trends that emphasize environmental responsibility.

The successful integration of these materials enhances not only the physical resilience of the project but also reinforces its aesthetic appeal. The design showcases how modern architecture can prioritize sustainability without sacrificing functionality.

Explore Further

For a more in-depth understanding of the Houselevator project, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, the presentation offers valuable insights. Engaging with these elements will deepen your appreciation for the architectural concepts and functional strategies employed in this forward-looking design.

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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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