Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Staggered Terraces Crafted from Concrete and Glass with Integrated Private Gardens

Author:
Stefano Sessa
Staggered Terraces Crafted from Concrete and Glass with Integrated Private Gardens

Project in-detail

Crafted with staggered concrete and glass elements, this residential design integrates private gardens into its urban setting to enhance community living while providing a functional and inviting home environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates staggered terracing to optimize sunlight exposure for all units.
02
Each residence features individual private gardens that enhance community interaction and outdoor living.
03
Large glass facades provide expansive views while maintaining energy efficiency.
04
The use of concrete ensures structural integrity while allowing for striking design elements.
05
Pedestrian pathways are integrated to prioritize walkability and promote social engagement among residents.
The Tetris Houses project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture within an urban context, particularly situated in the busy environment of Kingsland Road at the intersection of 47th and Stamford Hill in London. This project addresses the pressing demand for additional housing while simultaneously fostering a sense of community, making it a relevant and functional addition to this urban landscape. The design seeks to balance the necessity for increased living spaces with the promotion of social interaction, proving that density does not need to equate to a lack of quality living or communal spirit.

At its core, the project represents a modern interpretation of residential architecture that emphasizes individuality and collective living. It consists of a series of terraced houses organized in a staggered manner. This configuration is not just aesthetically pleasing; it optimizes sunlight exposure, allows for better views, and creates an environment where each unit maintains a sense of privacy. Private gardens are a central component of this design, providing each household with its own outdoor space, thus enhancing the quality of life for residents and encouraging outdoor activities that can foster community bonding.

The architectural design employs a modern palette characterized by prominent materials such as concrete, glass, and steel. Concrete serves as the structural backbone, ensuring durability and providing a uniform appearance across the building. The use of large glass windows enhances the transparency of the architecture, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and offering visual connections to the surrounding environment. Steel plays a crucial role in providing support, allowing for spacious interiors and innovative layouts that prioritize usability.

One unique aspect of the Tetris Houses project is the careful attention to accessibility and circulation. A pedestrian-friendly pathway system is designed to promote movement and interaction among residents while separating foot traffic from vehicles, which is vital for safety in urban areas. The inclusion of underground parking not only clears the streets of cars but also preserves the pedestrian-friendly nature of the design, which enhances the overall ambiance of the area.

Another important detail is the emphasis on communal gardens and outdoor spaces that accompany each living unit. These green areas serve not only as personal retreats for residents but also as shared spaces that encourage social engagement. The layout fosters our interconnectedness in an urban environment where such interactions can often be limited. The design reflects a keen understanding of the social dynamics within communities, highlighting the potential of residential architecture to enhance community life.

Tetris Houses also respond to significant ecological considerations, integrating sustainable practices into the construction and design processes. The arrangement of units and the landscaping choices promote biodiversity, contributing positively to the local ecology while offering residents a tangible connection to nature. The project subtly advocates for a lifestyle that respects environmental sustainability, demonstrating how thoughtful architectural design can engage with ecological principles.

As the detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts suggest, the Tetris Houses project is more than just a housing development; it is a practical example of how architecture can shape social environments within urban settings. By exploring the architectural designs and ideas presented in this project, one can gain deeper insights into how modern living can be optimized through intelligent design, integrating private and communal spaces effectively to enhance the overall quality of urban life. Engage with the project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of this endeavor and its implications for future architectural practices in densely populated areas.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy