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Steel Framework With Water Recycling Meets Community Needs

Authors:
Renata Becco Pedrosa, Rebecca Campos Leite Alencar, Aline Aguiar, Isabelle Carvalho
Steel Framework With Water Recycling Meets Community Needs

Project in-detail

A structural system of steel columns and beams supports a water recycling initiative within accessible housing units, designed to meet the diverse needs of families in an urban community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ground-level units are specifically designed for wheelchair access.
02
The design incorporates a community square for social interaction.
03
Each apartment features a unique layout tailored to family size.
04
An independent water recycling system enhances sustainability.
05
Steel columns and beams provide structural support while minimizing material use.

The Eco Hab project presents a practical approach to housing within an urban context, prioritizing sustainability and community living. The design focuses on creating functional spaces that cater to various family structures while promoting eco-friendly practices. The initiative aims to foster inclusivity and efficient resource use, reflecting current trends in residential design.

Housing Layouts

Five different apartment designs address the needs of various residents. Ground-level apartments are specifically designed for individuals with limited mobility, providing accessibility for wheelchair users. This commitment to inclusivity extends throughout the building, with options available for families of different sizes. Smaller units accommodate two people, while larger, two-storey models offer ample space for families needing more rooms.

Community Integration

Shared communal spaces are incorporated into the site to encourage social interaction and a sense of belonging. Amenities such as a playground, living areas, and a small square for food trucks invite residents to connect with one another. These open spaces enhance the livability of the area and encourage gatherings, fostering a strong neighborhood community.

Sustainability Measures

The project emphasizes sustainable living through effective water management systems. An independent water recycling system reduces overall environmental impact and aligns with the goal of resource efficiency, showing a thoughtful consideration of ecological factors. This focus on sustainability is increasingly important in urban design, meeting the demands for greener living environments.

Structural Framework

The project's materials reflect a commitment to both durability and performance. Steel is the primary structural element, providing the necessary support for the buildings. Each structure features "H" type steel columns and "I" type steel beams, which work together to ensure stability. Additionally, the use of steel deck slabs combines concrete with steel, reinforcing the overall framework. Light Steel Framing is used for wall construction, delivering thermal insulation while maximizing space efficiency.

Clear lines and defined spaces characterize the overall design, contributing to both the appearance and functionality of the development. The careful integration of communal and residential areas promotes active engagement among residents, enhancing the overall quality of life within the community.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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