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Tensile Pipes and Hollow Slabs Shaping Vertical Neighborhoods in Melbourne

Authors:
Tuba Kulsum, Aquib Arfi
Tensile Pipes and Hollow Slabs Shaping Vertical Neighborhoods in Melbourne
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Utilizing tensile pipes and hollow slabs, the design creates adaptable prefabricated housing units that form a vertical neighborhood, addressing Melbourne's urban housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes tensile pipes for structural support in modular units.
02
Incorporates hollow slabs to reduce weight and enhance stability.
03
Features pocket gardens that promote community interaction.
04
Emphasizes vertical living to optimize land use in a dense urban area.
05
Designed for adaptability to accommodate various resident needs.

The design in Melbourne focuses on addressing the challenges of population growth and high housing costs in a bustling urban environment. It aims to create adaptable living spaces that fit within the existing infrastructure. By using a modular approach, the design promotes a configuration of prefabricated housing units. This method not only allows for efficient construction but also fosters connections within the community. The result is a vertical neighborhood that enhances the overall experience of living in the city.

Modularity and Flexibility

The project centers around the concepts of adaptation and re-use. Prefabricated units are designed to be assembled in various configurations, providing flexibility to meet different needs. Whether for singles, couples, or families, these adaptable units cater to various lifestyles. This modular strategy allows for quick assembly and easy modification, making it a practical solution for modern urban living.

Structural Components

To ensure durability, the design incorporates specific structural elements. Tensile pipes provide the necessary support for the modular units, and hollow core slabs create a robust framework. This combination contributes to the overall integrity of the building. Galvanized steel joins the modules together, reinforcing the connections and ensuring stability. These components work cohesively to maintain a safe living environment.

Sustainability and Environment

Sustainability takes center stage in the design, with features aimed at reducing energy consumption. Natural ventilation and ample daylight contribute to a healthy indoor atmosphere. Green spaces are integrated into the layout, offering residents areas to gather and enjoy nature. These elements not only enhance the living experience but also support the local ecosystem. The approach emphasizes a balanced relationship between the built environment and the nature surrounding it.

Community-Centric Design

The arrangement of the housing units encourages social interaction among residents. Terraces and pocket gardens provide shared spaces, fostering a sense of belonging. These outdoor areas invite residents to engage with one another, promoting a community spirit. The thoughtful layout ensures that while individual units offer privacy, there is also a clear connection to the wider neighborhood.

The design achieves a practical balance between community needs and individual living preferences. With unique lighting and outdoor spaces, each unit offers a link to nature. This connection enhances the overall living quality, allowing residents to thrive within the urban landscape while enjoying the benefits of a closely-knit community.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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