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Vertical Gardens and Natural Materials Transforming Abandoned Structures Into Sustainable Co-Living Spaces

Authors:
Olga Gumienna, Marcin Osak, Łukasz Modrzejewski, Aleksander Blicharski
Vertical Gardens and Natural Materials Transforming Abandoned Structures Into Sustainable Co-Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing vertical gardens and natural materials, the design converts abandoned parking structures into cohesive co-living environments that enhance urban sustainability and foster community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed parking structures to address urban housing shortages.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance air quality and community aesthetics.
03
Features a flexible layout to adapt to evolving resident needs and lifestyles.
04
Integrates renewable energy systems such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting.
05
Employs locally sourced natural materials to minimize the carbon footprint.

The architectural project presented focuses on the transformation of abandoned parking structures in Rome into sustainable co-living environments. This approach not only repurposes existing space but also addresses the pressing need for affordable housing within dense urban settings. The project reflects modern architectural practices by promoting ecological sustainability, social integration, and community-oriented living.

The core function of this design is to create a living space that fosters interaction among residents while providing essential personal privacy. By incorporating both private housing units and communal areas, the design encourages a balance between solitude and socialization. The arrangement of these spaces facilitates a seamless flow of movement, imbuing the structure with a dynamic quality reflective of contemporary urban life.

Reimagined Shared Living Environments

A key feature of this design is the co-living model, which offers residents shared amenities such as kitchens, recreational areas, and gardens. These spaces are designed to enhance community bonding, promoting relationships among residents from diverse backgrounds. The architects prioritize flexible interior layouts that accommodate different lifestyles, allowing rooms to be personalized according to individual needs. This adaptability is critical in addressing the evolving dynamics of urban living.

The project strategically integrates green spaces. Vertical gardens and terraces not only provide visual relief but improve air quality and promote mental well-being among residents. The use of natural materials, such as wood and glass, contributes to a warm atmosphere while maintaining energy efficiency. The emphasis on sustainable design principles ensures that the project minimizes its environmental impact.

Sustainable Architectural Strategies

Distinctive environmental strategies define this project further. The adaptive reuse of existing structures demonstrates a commitment to sustainability by reducing the need for new materials and construction. The architectural design incorporates energy-efficient systems, such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels, enhancing resource management within the building.

The design philosophy encompasses the necessity of biophilic elements, ensuring that nature is an integral part of the living experience. Green roofs and living walls are utilized to create a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, reinforcing residents’ connection to their environment.

This architectural endeavor exemplifies a thoughtful response to urban living challenges through innovative design strategies and sustainable practices. For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other designs related to this project, the presentation offers comprehensive insights into its structural and aesthetic components. Explore these details to appreciate the full scope of this architectural project and its implications for future urban development.

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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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