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Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Steel Framing and Glass Facades Beneath a Historic Viaduct

Author:
Martin Flegl
Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Steel Framing and Glass Facades Beneath a Historic Viaduct

Project in-detail

Constructed beneath an existing railway viaduct, the design employs steel framing and glass facades to create modular residential units that enhance urban living while integrating community spaces and efficient technical areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed beneath a historic railway viaduct, maximizing urban space use.
02
Utilizes modular steel framing for rapid assembly and flexibility in redesign.
03
Includes glass facades to enhance natural light and visual connection to the outside.
04
Incorporates shared communal balconies to encourage resident interaction.
05
Design maintains technical service areas on the ground level for operational efficiency.
The architectural project, “Railway Living,” presents a methodical response to urban housing demands by integrating residential units beneath an existing railway viaduct in the Czech Republic. This design effectively utilizes underused infrastructure, transforming it into functional living spaces while preserving the historical context of the site. The project incorporates a modular construction approach and promotes sustainability through thoughtful material selection and efficient spatial organization.

Innovative Use of Infrastructure
What distinguishes this project from others is its unique integration of residential units within the confines of an existing urban element. The design capitalizes on the structural arches of the viaduct, supporting a series of modular housing units that are both visually and spatially impactful. By repurposing a neglected space, the project not only alleviates housing shortages but also revitalizes the surrounding urban environment. Each housing unit is carefully positioned to maximize natural light and airflow, providing a comfortable living experience. The inclusion of balconies on the upper levels fosters community interaction, encouraging residents to share communal spaces.

Material Selection and Construction
The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials that enhance both durability and aesthetics. Steel and reinforced concrete form the primary structural components, ensuring stability and longevity. Glass elements are strategically incorporated to enhance transparency, allowing residents unobstructed views of the surroundings while promoting natural light. Wood finishes add a warm, inviting quality to the interiors, balancing the industrial nature of the other materials. The modular design allows for ease of assembly and reduces construction waste, aligning with contemporary sustainability standards in architectural practice.

Functionality and Spatial Layout
The multifunctional nature of the design supports diverse use cases, providing both residential and commercial spaces. The ground level is designed for utility, serving as storage and technical areas critical for operational efficiency. The second floor hosts the primary living spaces, where modular units are arranged to prioritize privacy while encouraging neighborly interaction. On the third level, communal areas and balconies enable residents to engage with each other and their environment. This careful spatial organization reflects a commitment to creating a vibrant community, rather than isolating residents in typical urban settings.

For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of “Railway Living,” readers are encouraged to explore detailed presentations of the project. An examination of these elements will provide additional insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this innovative solution to contemporary urban challenges.
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MICROHOME
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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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