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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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