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Upcycled Shipping Containers with Thermal Insulation in a Community-Oriented Urban Setting

Upcycled Shipping Containers with Thermal Insulation in a Community-Oriented Urban Setting
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Reclaimed shipping containers form a community-focused living complex in Tromsø, incorporating robust insulation and modular construction methods to address local housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed shipping containers serve as the primary structural elements.
02
Thermal insulation adapts to Tromsø's harsh climate conditions.
03
Modular design allows for flexibility in living arrangements.
04
Community areas encourage interaction among residents.
05
Panoramic views of the surrounding Arctic landscape are maximized.

### Project Overview

"Reclaimed Living" is situated in Tromsø, Norway, under the Tromsø Bridge and adjacent to the surrounding Arctic landscape. The initiative utilizes upcycled shipping containers to create sustainable housing, addressing the growing need for affordable living spaces. The design aims to integrate with the urban environment while promoting community connectivity and accessibility.

### Spatial Strategy and Context

The project adapts to the challenging topography and climate of Tromsø, positioning living units beneath the bridge. This strategic placement optimizes previously unused space and fosters interaction with the urban fabric. The elevated site provides expansive views of the fjords and mountains while aligning the built environment with natural landscapes, enhancing both aesthetic and functional aspects of the development.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects the project's commitment to sustainability. Key components include reclaimed shipping containers, which provide both durability and flexibility in design. Polyurethane foam insulation ensures energy efficiency suitable for Tromsø's cold winters, while wooden cladding promotes local craftsmanship and ecological responsibility. The structural integrity is maintained through a metal framework that connects to the bridge, exemplifying innovative engineering techniques aimed at stability and safety.

By integrating these elements, "Reclaimed Living" not only delivers over 210 sustainable living units with modern amenities but also creates communal areas that encourage social interaction among residents. The adaptability of each 60-square-meter unit enables personalization, further enhancing the overall user experience.

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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.

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

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Eligibility Open to all
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