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Vertical Modularity Enhanced by Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Solutions

Authors:
Marcus Chan, Florence Zhu
Vertical Modularity Enhanced by Glass Facades and Sustainable Concrete Solutions

Project in-detail

Elevating urban living through a blend of vertical modularity and expansive glass facades, this design maximizes space and fosters community interaction within affordable residential units.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project employs a staggered module arrangement to enhance visual depth and foster interactions among residents.
02
Extensive use of glass facades ensures maximum natural light while maintaining energy efficiency through strategic shading.
03
Incorporation of green terraces on various levels contributes to urban biodiversity and provides residents with access to nature.
04
Prefabricated construction methods accelerate assembly while minimizing environmental impact associated with traditional building practices.
05
The design prioritizes social engagement by integrating communal spaces that encourage informal gatherings and community bonding.
The architectural project "Vertical Permeability" serves as a thoughtful response to the housing challenges faced in urban environments, particularly in Sydney, where the demand for affordable and adaptable living spaces continues to grow. This design represents a shift towards modular living, where flexible configurations cater to various household types, thus promoting a diverse demographic within a compact urban setting.

Functionally, the project addresses the need for affordable housing while fostering community engagement. It incorporates a series of modular units that are thoughtfully arranged to maximize space without sacrificing livability. Each modular unit is designed with an eye towards efficiency, offering a range of living arrangements from single-story studios to multi-story configurations, accommodating individuals, couples, and families alike. This versatility is fundamental to the project’s ethos, as it aims to support diverse living situations while creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

The architectural design emphasizes verticality and permeability, intertwining private living spaces with communal areas to enhance social interactions among residents. The modules are arranged in a staggered pattern, allowing for private balconies and shared terraces that encourage outdoor activities and foster a connection with nature. This design not only maximizes the utility of limited ground space but also promotes a sense of belonging within the community through accessible shared spaces.

Material choices play a significant role in the architectural narrative of the "Vertical Permeability" project. The primary materials include concrete, known for its strength and durability, forming the foundational structure, complemented by expansive glass facades that provide ample natural light and offer sweeping views of the surroundings. The integration of these materials creates a visually cohesive design that balances solidity with transparency, reflecting modern architectural principles. Moreover, the use of pre-fabricated modules reduces construction time and waste, while also aligning with sustainable building practices.

One of the unique design approaches of this project is its emphasis on integration with the urban environment. The staggered formation of the modules contributes to a dynamic facade while nesting various green spaces that enhance biodiversity. The project not only addresses housing needs but also contributes to the ecological health of the area by preserving vegetation around building footings.

In addition to its architectural merits, the project serves a critical social function by addressing the ongoing housing crisis in Sydney. The range of affordable units, from compact studios to larger family homes, provides options for a broad spectrum of residents, thus promoting social diversity within the urban landscape. The design invites interaction among residents, effectively turning the building into a communal hub where individuals can connect and share experiences, strengthening community ties.

This focus on community engagement is further enhanced through the project's layout, ensuring that public and private spheres coexist harmoniously. The architectural design thoughtfully considers how residents will interact with each other and the space, which is essential in fostering a supportive urban community.

If you wish to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural decisions made throughout this project, including innovative layouts and material applications, exploring the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights. The "Vertical Permeability" project exemplifies how architecture can respond to urban challenges with practicality and sensitivity, creating not just living spaces, but vibrant communal environments. Engage with the project presentation to discover more about the fascinating architectural ideas that shaped this undertaking.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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