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Transparent Facades With Recycled Brick Create Flexible Modular Housing Solutions

Authors:
Lianna Mclean, Aaron Chen
Transparent Facades With Recycled Brick Create Flexible Modular Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Combining transparent facades and recycled brick, this modular housing development emphasizes flexibility and community interaction through adaptive living spaces in the heart of Sydney.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transparent facades enhance natural lighting and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces.
02
Recycled brick is utilized to reflect Sydney's cultural heritage while promoting sustainability.
03
Flexible modular layouts allow residents to customize living arrangements based on individual needs.
04
Staggered building configuration creates private outdoor space while fostering community interaction.
05
Integrated balcony gardens contribute to biodiversity and promote sustainable living practices.
The Checkerboard project is a modular housing development located in Sydney, designed to address the growing need for affordable living solutions while promoting community interaction. This architectural endeavor integrates a flexible design framework that accommodates various living arrangements, ranging from individual units to family apartments. The arrangement of the modules creates an engaging urban environment, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Modular Design and Functionality

The Checkerboard utilizes a modular design approach, consisting of two primary unit types—studio and two-bedroom apartments. This configuration allows for an adaptive arrangement, facilitating customization based on resident needs and site conditions. Each module is strategically oriented to maximize natural light and views, creating an open, airy atmosphere within the living spaces. The transparent facades, primarily composed of glass, enhance connectivity with the exterior environment, fostering a sense of openness.

Community Spaces and Social Interaction

An essential aspect of The Checkerboard project is the emphasis on communal areas. Shared courtyard spaces serve as focal points for social interaction among residents, encouraging community engagement. This approach challenges the conventional isolated living model often found in urban developments. The unique staggered arrangement of modules allows for private outdoor spaces while maintaining visual connections across the property.

Green Integration and Sustainable Practices

Integrating greenery into the design is another distinguishing feature. Balcony gardens and communal planting areas contribute to biodiversity and promote sustainable living practices. The project's materiality reflects an emphasis on sustainability, utilizing recycled brick, concrete, timber, and metal elements, creating a harmonious relationship with Sydney's architectural context. This thoughtful selection not only ensures durability but also reduces the environmental impact during construction.

For further insights into The Checkerboard's design, including architectural plans and sections, the reader is encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the project. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this innovative housing solution and its unique contributions to urban living.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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