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Vertical Gardens and Prefabricated Steel Uniting Flexible Micro-Units in an Urban Landscape

Authors:
George Kontaroudis, Michail-Karolos Keranis, Dimitrios Stivaros
Vertical Gardens and Prefabricated Steel Uniting Flexible Micro-Units in an Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Fiberglass panels and prefabricated steel elements form a sustainable structure that adapts to urban density through flexible micro-units designed for diverse living arrangements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for seamless reconfiguration of living spaces to accommodate changing tenant needs.
02
Vertical gardens integrated into the façade enhance sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Prefabricated steel structure reduces construction time and material waste.
04
Micro-unit layouts optimize space while providing essential amenities for urban living.
05
Customizable interior partitions enable multifunctional use of apartments.

### Project Overview

Located at 225 West 28th Street in New York City, the MOD 12.5 initiative addresses the pressing challenges of urban housing by offering flexible and adaptive living solutions. This site holds historical significance, reflecting the city's evolution from traditional tenement buildings to contemporary urban residential models. The design aims to respond to the changing needs of a diverse population, aligning with current demands for affordable housing.

### Spatial Strategy and Adaptability

At the core of the design is a commitment to adaptability, allowing for reconfiguration of spaces in response to various tenant needs. The project utilizes a standard city block footprint of 25' x 100' to optimize land use while providing ample living space in a compact urban environment. Micro-units are integrated within a modular architectural framework that permits easy alteration of layouts, accommodating configurations such as studios and multi-bedroom apartments based on user requirements. This strategic planning emphasizes versatility without sacrificing structural integrity or design quality.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette is selected for its performance and sustainability, contributing to the overall environmental strategy of the project. Key materials include fiberglass insulated panels for thermal efficiency, a pre-fabricated steel structure that enhances construction speed and strength, and composite concrete used in beams and columns for structural support. Additionally, the exterior incorporates EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) to improve insulation and aesthetic quality. Each unit features a sophisticated wall system with movable partitions, inspired by traditional Japanese architectural elements, allowing for a dynamic use of interior space.

Furthermore, vertical heat pump systems and integrated green planters within the units reinforce the project’s commitment to eco-conscious living. Trellises support climbing plants, creating a green façade that enhances the building's environmental efficiency and visual appeal. The design not only meets contemporary housing needs but also exemplifies a sustainable approach to urban living.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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