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Vertical Community Housing With Modular Polycarbonate Walls and Sustainable Planting Systems

Authors:
Changrong Hu, Meichen Shang, Qianxi Kong, Qiaoyang Chen
Vertical Community Housing With Modular Polycarbonate Walls and Sustainable Planting Systems

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular polycarbonate walls and integrated planting systems, the design transforms an unfinished urban building into a vertical community housing solution that prioritizes sustainable living and social interaction among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular polycarbonate sheets for lightweight insulation and natural light.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens designed for urban food production and aesthetics.
03
Features a flexible layout allowing for adaptation based on resident needs.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the building's drainage design.
05
Focuses on community spaces that promote social interaction among residents.

### Architectural Design Report: Vertical Community Micro Home in an Unfinished Building

#### Overview

Located in a densely populated urban area, this design initiative seeks to address the issue of unfinished buildings by converting them into functional living spaces. The project focuses on creating a vertical micro-community that offers essential services while fostering social interaction among residents. This approach recognizes the increasing demand for compact, community-oriented living arrangements in the context of rapid urbanization.

#### Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement

The project utilizes an innovative spatial strategy by implementing micro-housing modules that occupy the unfinished structure in a vertical manner. Each unit is designed to be self-sufficient, with an emphasis on optimizing space and enhancing connectivity. This vertical arrangement allows for efficient land use while integrating communal areas such as gardens and social spaces, promoting interactions among residents. The design encourages a sense of belonging within the community, addressing the need for social connectivity in urban living.

#### Materiality and Sustainability

Material choices for the development underscore a commitment to sustainability and adaptability. The structural framework consists of reinforced concrete for durability, supplemented by steel beams to support the modular construction approach. Polycarbonate hollow sheets serve as lightweight interior walls that provide insulation and facilitate natural light penetration. Solar panels contribute to energy efficiency by harnessing renewable energy, while integrated planting systems support local food production and enhance environmental resilience. A comprehensive water management system addresses rainwater collection and sewage management, contributing to sustainable living practices.

The careful selection of materials not only supports the community's needs but also promotes environmental sustainability, ensuring the project aligns with contemporary ecological standards. Each micro-unit, with a floor area of 25 square meters, is furnished with essential living facilities and remains adaptable to the evolving needs of its occupants.

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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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