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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 Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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