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Sustainable Living Enhanced by Fiber-Cement and Modular Units in Urban Housing

Authors:
Anna Niedźwiecka, Daria Kaczmarczyk, Paulina Cieśla, Emil Micewicz
Sustainable Living Enhanced by Fiber-Cement and Modular Units in Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed with modular units and fiber-cement siding, this urban housing solution integrates sustainable practices with adaptability to create efficient living spaces in a dense residential context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed to attach seamlessly to existing plattenbau structures.
02
Integration of fiber-cement siding for durability and low maintenance.
03
Incorporation of photovoltaic panels for on-site energy generation.
04
Rainwater collection systems enhance sustainability and resource efficiency.
05
Flexible interior layouts adapt for various residential needs and workspaces.
The Parasite House is an architectural design project that aims to enhance urban living by integrating new functionalities within existing housing structures, particularly the plattenbau typology prevalent in cities like Warsaw, Poland. It addresses the challenges of increasing urban density and rising living costs by proposing adaptable living spaces that augment the original structure. This project focuses on creating additional units that can be attached to the sides of existing buildings, maximizing space efficiency while maintaining the integrity of the original architecture.

The function of the Parasite House is twofold: it serves as an innovative housing solution and as a catalyst for revitalizing urban environments. By allowing for the addition of modular living units, the design facilitates flexible use of space for various living situations, including home offices and communal areas. Each unit is designed to contribute to a sustainable lifestyle, featuring shared resources such as rainwater collection systems and energy-generating solar panels.

Unique Design Approaches to Adaptability
A defining feature of the Parasite House is its approach to adaptability. The project employs a modular design philosophy, enabling additional residential spaces that can be introduced without extensive alterations to the existing plattenbau. This method fosters a relationship between old and new, allowing for vertical stacking and dynamic spatial arrangements that cater to different family sizes and lifestyles. The inclusion of fiber cement siding and wood in the construction not only complements the existing structure aesthetically but also supports sustainable building practices.

The integration of bold colors on the new units serves to differentiate them from the monotony of traditional concrete façades, enhancing the urban fabric. Simultaneously, the design emphasizes energy efficiency through the strategic placement of photovoltaic panels, ensuring that the new additions are self-sufficient and environmentally conscious.

Details and Functional Aspects of the Design
The layout of the facility emphasizes functionality while allowing for individual privacy and communal interaction. The design incorporates workspaces that are adaptable to the current shift toward remote work, addressing the ongoing demand for integrated home-office solutions. Each unit retains its independence while being part of a larger community structure.

Moreover, the Parasite House incorporates elements such as storage systems for water and waste management, enhancing the resilience of the infrastructure. The plumbing systems are designed to be easily installed, ensuring minimal disruption during construction while maximizing utility and efficiency within the urban context.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural designs that inform the Parasite House project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of this innovative design. Understanding its architectural ideas will shed light on its significant contributions to modern urban architecture.
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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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