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Vertical Gardens and Steel Framework in Affordable Youth Housing

Author:
Konstantinos Karagiannis
Vertical Gardens and Steel Framework in Affordable Youth Housing
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Crafted with a steel framework and enhanced by vertical gardens, this housing initiative addresses affordability and community needs for young adults through a blend of living, working, and training spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a modular steel framework that allows for future adaptability.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to enhance sustainability and air quality.
03
Features dedicated workshop spaces for vocational training and skill development.
04
Designed with large glass panels to maximize natural light and visual connectivity.
05
Utilizes a mix of concrete and wood for structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.

### Project Overview

Located in an urban area with an urgent need for affordable housing, the design prioritizes creating a community-oriented system aimed at young individuals aged 18 to 30. The primary intention is to establish not just shelter, but a comprehensive environment that encourages social interaction, creativity, and independence. By integrating living, working, and communal spaces, the project addresses the challenges of housing affordability and strengthens community ties among its residents.

### Spatial Strategy

The building's spatial organization features a deliberate division into interconnected zones. Living units include various apartment types designed to accommodate different resident configurations, from larger communal kitchens to individual studios. Adjacent to the residential areas, dedicated workshop spaces facilitate vocational training, such as carpentry and handmade crafts, further enhancing personal and professional development. Commercial areas provide opportunities for residents to sell their creations, promoting entrepreneurship and fostering a sense of community through shared markets. Additionally, green spaces throughout the site are designed for relaxation and social interaction, encouraging a strong sense of community among inhabitants.

### Material and Construction Approach

The structural integrity of the project relies on a steel grid framework that supports flexibility in spatial arrangements and future modifications. The use of concrete for exterior walls contributes to durability and acoustic comfort, while interior materials such as wood and plasterboard create inviting living environments. Large glass panels integrate the interior with the exterior, maximizing natural light and enhancing transparency. The incorporation of vertical gardens not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports sustainability by improving air quality and fostering biodiversity. Furthermore, the prefabricated living units streamline the construction process, reducing waste and project timelines while ensuring efficient assembly on-site.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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