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Utilizing Steel Beams and Rainwater Harvesting for Modular Community Living

Authors:
Jake Young, Valerie Tan, Yirou Chong, Sky Ching
Utilizing Steel Beams and Rainwater Harvesting for Modular Community Living
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Constructed with steel beams and rainwater harvesting systems, this modular micro-housing community emphasizes sustainability while fostering social cohesion among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a connecting bridge, promoting communal interaction among residents.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system integrated within the slanted roof design.
03
Utilizes steel beams for structural integrity, ensuring durability in diverse conditions.
04
Features modular units that can be reconfigured based on occupant needs.
05
Aluminum cladding enhances the building's energy efficiency and longevity.

### Overview

"Home Away From Home" is an architectural initiative aimed at addressing the urgent demand for affordable housing in economically and environmentally challenged regions. The project employs a micro-village concept that prioritizes modularity, sustainability, and community engagement, effectively meeting the varied needs of its residents while fostering social interactions among them.

### Spatial Configuration

The layout consists of a series of micro-houses, each purposefully designed to accommodate essential functions such as dining, workspaces, and private living areas. A notable feature is the "connecting bridge," which links individual units while promoting communal living. This bridge serves as a social space that encourages interactions among residents, helping to enhance the overall sense of community while maintaining personal privacy within the micro-houses.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The project utilizes a selection of durable and aesthetically appealing materials. Steel beams provide structural support, while an aluminum-framed façade offers corrosion resistance and visual appeal. Interior features include hardwood flooring for added warmth and comfort, and glass windows that maximize natural light and ventilation. The slanted metal roof is designed for rainwater collection, supporting the project's sustainability goals. Additionally, solar panels enhance energy efficiency, contributing to the self-sufficiency of each unit. The overall design incorporates adequate drainage systems to preserve the ecological integrity of the micro-village, while external storage areas keep living spaces uncluttered.

The adaptive nature of each micro-house allows for modifications based on family size or individual needs, promoting flexibility that accommodates changing circumstances. This approach, combined with the deliberate integration of natural resources and community-focused design, positions the project as a forward-thinking model for future urban developments.

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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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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