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Sustainable Community Housing Emphasizing Floating Roofs and Integrated Green Spaces

Authors:
Florencia Gutierrez, James Herrmann
Sustainable Community Housing Emphasizing Floating Roofs and Integrated Green Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating floating roofs and modular courtyard arrangements, this residential design creates a cohesive community environment for relocated farmers while emphasizing sustainability and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates floating roof designs to enhance natural ventilation and light entry.
02
Utilizes modular construction for flexible residential configurations based on family needs.
03
Features integrated rooftop gardens that promote biodiversity and community gardening.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
05
Includes dedicated communal spaces for social events and local markets, fostering community interaction.
The architectural project under review focuses on urban housing solutions designed to accommodate the needs of relocated farmers in China as a result of rapid urbanization. This initiative seeks to create a living environment that supports community integration, cultural preservation, and sustainable practices. The designs prioritize functionality while addressing the complexities associated with urban expansion.

The overall project consists of meticulously planned residential units arranged in communal settings. These structures feature modular configurations that allow for adaptability to changing family dynamics. The design incorporates both private and communal spaces to enhance social interactions among residents. By emphasizing open green areas and dedicated facilities, the project fosters a sense of community and belonging while facilitating environmental engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

A notable aspect of this project is its use of traditional Chinese architectural elements reinterpreted for contemporary settings. Floating roofs and privacy screens take inspiration from historic designs, merging them with modern construction techniques to fulfill current urban demands. The layout promotes walkability, minimizing vehicular traffic while maximizing pedestrian accessibility.

Another defining feature is the integration of landscape into the architecture. Each residence is designed with access to personal garden spaces and shared public green areas. This strategy not only enhances the aesthetics of the living environment but also contributes to biodiversity and urban ecology. The use of renewable materials and construction methods further underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability.

Community-Centric Functionality

The project enhances community-centric functionality through a careful arrangement of public spaces and activities. Each cluster of homes is adjacent to communal facilities such as marketplaces and recreational areas, which are designed to encourage social gatherings and communal activities. The architecture supports a lifestyle that values interaction and cooperation, thereby revitalizing social ties and communal identity.

This array of features illustrates a thoughtful response to the challenges posed by urbanization, blending innovative design with respect for cultural heritage. For a more in-depth understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design innovations, explore the detailed project presentation that reveals the full scope of these architectural ideas.
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Enter an open architecture
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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
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