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Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Modular Design and Concrete Integration Beneath Urban Infrastructure

Authors:
Chen-wei Young, Chang Shu-yu
Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Modular Design and Concrete Integration Beneath Urban Infrastructure

Project in-detail

Modular residences suspended within a concrete framework beneath a bridge create a unique urban community space that encourages interaction and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are suspended from a central concrete framework, allowing for flexible living arrangements.
02
The design integrates public and private spaces, promoting community interaction beneath the bridge structure.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles adds both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance to the exterior.
04
Pathways connect residential units, enhancing mobility and creating varying perspectives of the urban landscape.
05
The project utilizes sustainable materials, including cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
"The Moving Maze" is an innovative architectural project that utilizes space beneath a bridge to create a multifaceted residential and public community environment. This project represents an exploration of urban spaces that typically remain underutilized or overlooked. It functions as a hybrid living space designed to accommodate both private residences and public amenities, fostering a sense of community while maximizing the potential of constrained urban areas.

The architectural design employs a modular framework, allowing for a variety of residential configurations. The building structure consists of two-bedroom and three-bedroom units, arranged around a central public area situated between the bridge piers. This central space is intended to serve as a communal hub, encouraging social interaction among residents. Pathways and circulation routes provide seamless access between units and the public space, enhancing connectivity and movement.

The design underlines the importance of integrating private and public realms, where residents can engage in communal activities while enjoying the privacy of their living spaces. The arrangement of total living spaces around the public area enables active participation in community life, countering the conventional isolation often seen in urban housing developments.

A notable aspect of the project is its innovative approach to site adaptation. Instead of viewing the area beneath the bridge as an impediment or a mere space filler, the design embraces it, offering a new perspective on living beneath a prominent urban structure. The use of vertical and horizontal elements in residential design emphasizes both structural integrity and aesthetic flow, making the most of the unusual environment.

The project’s material selection reinforces its architectural intentions. Concrete and steel form the backbone of the structural framework, providing durability and strength, while wood or composite materials are likely utilized for interior enhancements and furnishings, contributing warmth to the living environment. Extensive use of glass may facilitate natural lighting and visual openness, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

The design promotes active circulation, featuring diagonal walkways that guide residents throughout the project. These routes not only connect different areas of the living environment but also provide varying viewpoints within the space, enriching the overall experience of movement. This consideration demonstrates a departure from typical residential designs, which often prioritize maximization of square footage over experiential quality.

As a response to contemporary urban challenges, "The Moving Maze" exemplifies a modern attitude towards urban living, focusing on adaptability and community-centered design. Its emphasis on utilizing overlooked areas for vibrant, functional living highlights the potential of integrating architectural solutions within existing urban frameworks.

For additional insight, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation, including architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the innovative ideas driving this work.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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