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Transforming Under-Bridge Spaces with Sustainable Concrete and Flexible Modular Units

Transforming Under-Bridge Spaces with Sustainable Concrete and Flexible Modular Units
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Utilizing modular units and sustainable concrete beneath a bridge, this development redefines urban living by integrating community spaces and affordable housing in an often-overlooked area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes the often-overlooked space beneath a bridge for innovative housing solutions.
02
Features modular units designed for adaptability to changing community needs.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates landscaped green spaces to foster community interaction and well-being.
05
Employs sustainable concrete construction techniques to minimize environmental impact.

## Overview

"The True Colors of Living Under the Bridge" is an urban development project situated near the Kapellbrücke bridge, emphasizing affordable housing and integrated urban living. The initiative aims to rejuvenate neglected areas beneath the bridge, transforming them into vibrant living spaces that cater to diverse community needs. The intent is to foster community connection, support various demographics, and promote inclusive engagement with public areas.

## Spatial Strategy and User Diversity

The design incorporates multifunctional spaces that combine residential units, recreational facilities, and community-oriented amenities. This configuration is intended to enhance usability and interaction among residents, creating a supportive community environment. A diverse range of residential options—including one-, two-, and three-person apartments—accommodates different family structures and living preferences. The modular design offers flexibility, enabling adaptation to changing occupant needs over time.

## Material Selection and Environmental Integration

In terms of materiality, the project emphasizes sustainable choices with a focus on both performance and aesthetics. Durable concrete ensures the structural integrity of residential units while providing thermal benefits. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and reinforces the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Steel serves as the backbone of the framework, contributing to both strength and a contemporary aesthetic. Warm wood finishes enhance interior spaces, while thoughtfully selected pavement materials improve pedestrian pathways and drainage, further promoting environmental sustainability.

Landscaped green spaces and recreational areas are strategically positioned to enhance residents' quality of life, promoting physical and mental well-being. By addressing the underutilization of space below the bridge, the project innovatively repurposes urban areas, thereby creating new living opportunities and encouraging social interaction through integrated community resources such as a cinema and skatepark.

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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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Competition organisers

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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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