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Switchback Design Featuring Precast Concrete and Wood Cladding for Cohesive Urban Living

Authors:
Joseph Mills, Ramon Klaharn
Switchback Design Featuring Precast Concrete and Wood Cladding for Cohesive Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a switchback design with modular units crafted from precast concrete and wood cladding, the development optimizes urban density while fostering community interaction through shared terraces, ultimately addressing the need for affordable housing in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units incorporate offset designs to optimize natural light and ventilation.
02
Switchback configuration creates integrated communal terraces for social interaction.
03
Precast concrete provides structural integrity while reducing construction time.
04
Wood cladding enhances thermal performance and visual warmth in urban settings.
05
Flexibility in unit types accommodates diverse family sizes and living arrangements.
The Hong Kong Switchback Homes project is an innovative architectural endeavor located at 2 Bowrington Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong. This project addresses the pressing need for affordable housing within a densely populated urban environment. The design integrates modular living units characterized by a dynamic switchback configuration, facilitating both optimal space utilization and enhanced social interaction among residents.

The primary function of this project is to provide sustainable housing solutions that foster community engagement. By leveraging the unique characteristics of the site and the demands of urban living, the project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to modern architecture in a metropolis setting. The integration of multiple communal spaces and terraces encourages residents to interact, promoting a community-oriented lifestyle in a city known for its high-rise isolation.

The modular design features distinct unit configurations that cater to varying family sizes and lifestyles. These layouts, denoted as A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2, offer flexible living arrangements that maintain comfort while maximizing living space. Each modular unit's offset design enables natural light penetration and optimizes ventilation, contributing to better living conditions.

The architecture of Hong Kong Switchback Homes utilizes a combination of materials that enhances both functionality and aesthetics. Key materials include precast concrete for durability, wood for thermal comfort and visual appeal, and glass for balconies and railings that enhance transparency. The inclusion of green spaces within the design not only improves air quality but also creates relaxing communal areas, essential to urban living.

A unique aspect of this project is its step-based layout that creates semi-public and public terraces. These elements allow for various social activities, fostering connections among residents. The design also considers adaptability, providing spaces that can evolve with the changing needs of community members. By departing from conventional housing models, this project emphasizes community interaction, enhancing the urban experience within a dense landscape.

The Hong Kong Switchback Homes serve as a model for future urban residential developments, emphasizing the significance of community-driven planning in high-density environments. This architectural project not only addresses immediate housing needs but does so with a focus on fostering social ties, environmental sustainability, and space efficiency.

For a thorough understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more detailed insights.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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