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Vertical Living Enhanced by Expansive Glass and Natural Timber Elements in Urban Housing

Author:
Dae Cheol Kim
Vertical Living Enhanced by Expansive Glass and Natural Timber Elements in Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Expansive glass facades and natural timber elements define a vertical living solution that integrates community spaces and private residences, addressing the needs of urban life in Gangnam.
5 key facts about this project
01
Expansive glass facades maximize natural light and views while maintaining privacy for residents.
02
Natural timber elements include cross-laminated panels that enhance structural efficiency and aesthetics.
03
The design incorporates spacious communal areas, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.
04
A bent A-frame design elevates the architectural profile while optimizing space within the urban context.
05
Sustainable construction methods reduce environmental impact while meeting modern living demands.
The Eumma Apartment project is located in the densely populated area of Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea. It serves as a high-density residential building designed to accommodate individual households while fostering a sense of community among residents. This project addresses the inherent challenges of urban living, providing a solution that balances privacy with social interaction. The design strategically utilizes vertical space to optimize the limited land area, allowing for increased housing without further land consumption.

Unique Conceptual Framework

The project’s name, “Eumma,” reflects its conceptual focus on external visibility, encouraging residents to connect with their surroundings. This focus manifests in the layout which integrates both private apartments and communal spaces, facilitating interactions among residents. Each unit is positioned to ensure ample natural light, utilizing large windows and balconies that extend the living space outdoors. This architectural approach not only addresses the need for functional living areas but also enhances the quality of life by encouraging outdoor engagement and interaction with the vibrant urban environment.

Distinct Materiality and Sustainability

The Eumma Apartment employs a carefully selected palette of materials including concrete for structural integrity, glass for maintaining transparency and connection with the outside world, marble for high-quality finishes in common areas, and steel for construction elements. The use of concrete and glass creates a modern aesthetic that is both functional and visually appealing. The sustainability of the project is accentuated through energy-efficient materials and design strategies that maximize natural ventilation and light, reducing dependency on artificial heating and cooling systems.

Focus on Community Spaces

A significant aspect of the design is the integration of communal areas that promote resident interaction. The project features shared lounges, outdoor terraces, and common kitchens, designed to facilitate social gatherings and community events. This emphasis on public space encourages a sense of belonging and community among residents, which is often lacking in urban apartment living. The central public space is positioned to be accessible from all units, reinforcing the importance of shared experiences in enhancing urban living.

The Eumma Apartment project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to urban residential architecture. It balances private living with community interaction through innovative design strategies and careful material selection. Explore the project presentation for a deeper analysis, including architectural plans and sections that illustrate the intricate details of this design and its contribution to modern urban living.
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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