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Vertical Integration of Flexible Living Spaces with Concrete and Elastic Materials

Authors:
Fatima Yilmaz, Jinglin Cai, Xiangyue Guan
Vertical Integration of Flexible Living Spaces with Concrete and Elastic Materials
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Utilizing elastic materials and a modular design approach, this development seamlessly integrates new residential units within the urban gaps of Hong Kong, addressing the city's housing challenges while promoting community connectivity and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units adapt to varying site conditions, maximizing functionality in constrained spaces.
02
Incorporates external staircases and communal balconies to enhance social connectivity.
03
Utilizes elastic materials in the facade for improved ventilation and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features green terraces that promote biodiversity and mitigate urban heat.
05
Designed to seamlessly fill architectural gaps in existing structures without disruption.

**Overview**

Located in the densely populated urban context of Hong Kong, the project focuses on addressing housing demands by utilizing available gaps within the existing urban fabric for new construction. The intention is to create sustainable living solutions for the local population, particularly for residents facing socio-economic challenges. By integrating modern design sensibilities into established neighborhoods, the initiative promotes a more cohesive urban environment.

**Site Integration and Spatial Strategy**

The design responds to the complexities of the existing landscape, enabling the incorporation of new structures without compromising the integrity of older buildings. The strategy focuses on vertical expansion within narrow sites, optimizing space use while acknowledging infrastructural constraints. This modular approach supports various residential layouts, accommodating diverse family structures and enhancing community interaction through carefully designed common spaces.

**Material and Environmental Considerations**

A selection of materials has been made to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. This includes concrete for durability, steel for framework support, and glass to foster an open atmosphere. Timber is used for terraces, providing warmth and visual contrast, while elastic board is proposed for facades to enhance natural ventilation. Emphasizing sustainability, the design incorporates green terraces, large glass panels, and other features that promote biodiversity and environmental responsibility. The project also prioritizes safety through the use of fireproof materials, ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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