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Urban Gardening Integrated Within Modular Glulam Housing Design

Authors:
Arthur mcmarvin Kunihira, Fidel Gatimu, Sadoud Nesma, Tarique Katuntu
Urban Gardening Integrated Within Modular Glulam Housing Design

Project in-detail

With modular glulam structures and integrated urban gardens, the development revitalizes vacant spaces in Berlin to provide flexible and affordable housing options for diverse residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed for easy reconfiguration as resident needs change.
02
Integrated gardens on each floor promote urban agriculture and community interaction.
03
Staggered module arrangement enhances cross-ventilation throughout the building.
04
Construction utilizes a skeleton frame with glulam beams for structural efficiency.
05
Diverse unit sizes cater to a wide range of household dynamics.

The Berlin Revival project addresses the need for affordable housing by transforming abandoned areas into functional living spaces that encourage community interaction. Located in the heart of Berlin, the design focuses on creating a welcoming environment for residents while respecting the historical context of the city. The overall concept is built around a modular framework that emphasizes flexibility, sustainability, and social connection.

Modular Framework

The design centers on a modular approach that allows for various living arrangements. The base structure has been simplified to a skeletal form, complemented by additional volumes that improve circulation within the building. This arrangement optimizes space and ensures ample natural light and ventilation for the residents.

Community-Oriented Spaces

Modules are stacked in a staggered manner, promoting airflow between floors and helping to reduce feelings of isolation among residents. Each living unit is designed to cater to different household sizes, ranging from single occupants to larger families. The inclusion of shared spaces encourages social engagement and strengthens community bonds while meeting a variety of housing needs.

Integration of Green Features

Garden spaces are integrated into the design, allowing residents to participate in urban gardening and share activities that foster cooperation. These green areas serve as both personal and communal resources, enhancing the quality of life. They also contribute to sustainability by giving residents the chance to grow their own food, promoting healthier living.

Structural Components

The project features a skeleton frame supported by glulam beams, prefabricated structural panels, and concrete supports. This choice of materials ensures strength and durability while allowing for quicker construction. By minimizing waste and enhancing efficiency, the design reflects a commitment to sustainability. The careful selection of these structural components balances functionality with a visually appealing environment.

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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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