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Sustainable Living Through Reinforced Concrete and Biophilic Design in a Central Paris Community

Author:
Youngil Kim
Sustainable Living Through Reinforced Concrete and Biophilic Design in a Central Paris Community

Project in-detail

With a façade of soft-edged arches complemented by reinforced concrete and integrated greenery, this central Paris housing initiative provides diverse residential units while fostering community engagement through thoughtfully designed communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates soft-edged arches to create a visually appealing façade.
02
Utilizes reinforced concrete for structural integrity while allowing flexible spatial arrangements.
03
Integrates biophilic elements, enhancing the living environment with vegetation throughout.
04
Emphasizes communal engagement through strategically designed public spaces and amenities.
05
Offers diverse residential unit types tailored to various family structures and lifestyles.
The project focuses on the design of social housing in central Paris, addressing the critical need for affordable housing in an urban context marked by increasing population density and diversity. This architectural initiative aims to provide a functional living environment while promoting community interaction. It integrates private residential units with communal spaces, reinforcing social cohesion.

A key aspect of this project is its balance between public and private areas. The design includes several residential unit types, accommodating singles, couples, and families. By offering a range of unit sizes—from single units of 36 square meters to larger two-bedroom apartments—this project prioritizes inclusivity and flexibility, allowing for various family structures and lifestyle choices.

Architectural Form and Materiality

The architectural form distinguishes this project from typical housing developments. The use of soft-edged facades and arches creates visual appeal while maintaining a consistent connection to the historical context of Parisian architecture. This approach enhances the streetscape and invites interaction between the building occupants and the urban environment.

Material choices also play a significant role in the overall design intent. The project employs reinforced concrete for structural integrity, allowing for flexible spatial arrangements. Complementary materials like brick and wood contribute warmth and texture to the building's aesthetic. Large areas of glass create transparency, maximizing natural light and fostering a sense of openness within both private and communal spaces. Additionally, integrating greenery throughout the design introduces biophilic elements, enhancing residents' well-being.

Community-Oriented Spaces

The integration of communal spaces is a central feature of this project, emphasizing the importance of community engagement. The central courtyard serves as a gathering space for residents, featuring landscaping and seating areas to encourage social interaction. These spaces are not merely functional; they are designed to foster a sense of belonging and ownership among the inhabitants.

The arrangement of public amenities, including childcare facilities, recreational areas, and commercial spaces, aligns with the design’s goal of creating a vibrant community hub. This multifaceted approach ensures that residents have access to essential services and opportunities for engagement, which enhances the overall quality of life.

To gain further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design details of this social housing project, exploring the full project presentation is recommended. The intricate design ideas and thoughtful execution reflect a deep commitment to addressing urban housing needs while promoting community well-being.
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Enter an open architecture
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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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