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Suspended Living Spaces With Aluminum Composite Panels and Integrated Solar Solutions For Urban Resilience

Authors:
Joshua Dillin, Luke Lawrence Dole, Christopher Sweeney
Suspended Living Spaces With Aluminum Composite Panels and Integrated Solar Solutions For Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Suspended living modules constructed with aluminum composite panels and solar integration transform underutilized urban bridges into resilient housing solutions for climate refugees.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended modules utilize existing bridge structures, minimizing land use.
02
Aluminum composite panels enhance durability while maintaining lightweight design.
03
Integrated solar arrays provide energy independence for residents.
04
Multi-purpose communal areas promote social interaction among inhabitants.
05
High-performance insulation ensures thermal comfort in varying climates.
The architectural project "Secured" addresses the urgent needs of climate refugees in the urban context of Buffalo, New York. It proposes the transformation of existing bridge structures into modular living units that serve as efficient housing solutions. This design aims to utilize underused urban infrastructures while fostering community and resilience in face of environmental challenges.

Spatially, the project consists of prefabricated living modules suspended from or attached to the bridges, optimizing vertical space and minimizing land use. Each unit is tiered to enhance views, natural light, and ventilation, promoting a sense of well-being among residents. The architectural layout includes multi-purpose common areas that encourage social interaction, providing spaces for communal activities and enhancing community bonds.

The design represents a pragmatic response to the increasing frequency of climate-related displacements, showcasing how existing urban elements can be repurposed for humanitarian needs. The core function of "Secured" is to provide safe, welcoming, and sustainable living environments for individuals facing displacement due to environmental changes.

Innovative design approaches distinguish this project from conventional housing solutions. The use of steel frames ensures structural integrity, while lightweight aluminum composite panels expedite construction and reduce costs. Transparent glass inserts facilitate natural light penetration and visual connection to the outside environment, reinforcing inhabitants' connection to their setting.

Sustainability is embedded in the design through the inclusion of solar panels on certain living modules, contributing to energy independence and reducing the carbon footprint. High-performance insulation materials ensure thermal comfort across varying climatic conditions, essential for the psychological well-being of residents.

Unlike typical housing projects, "Secured" employs a community-focused methodology by integrating communal spaces into the living design. This allows for occasions that go beyond mere shelter, transforming the housing experience into one of dignity and support. Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design details provides further insights into how this project effectively addresses the complexities of urban living and environmental resilience. For a comprehensive understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to delve into the architectural designs and ideas that underpin "Secured."
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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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