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Affordable Housing with Repurposed Shells Featuring Cork and Communal Spaces

Authors:
Anna Ridder, Valentina Rapuano, Óli Geir Kristjánsson, Tyra Blichfeldt
Affordable Housing with Repurposed Shells Featuring Cork and Communal Spaces
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Utilizing repurposed building shells and incorporating communal spaces, this initiative provides affordable housing options while addressing urban vacancy and economic challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposes vacant structures into livable spaces.
02
Integrates communal areas to foster social interaction.
03
Utilizes modular living units for flexibility and adaptability.
04
Focuses on sustainability through ecological practices.
05
Addresses urban housing shortages with affordable options.

The design focuses on addressing urban housing shortages through the legal squatting of vacant buildings. Situated in often crowded city centers, the project aims to turn unused structures, referred to as "shells," into livable environments. By offering affordable housing solutions, it responds to the needs of those who struggle to find homes in expensive metropolitan areas.

Functionality

The concept revolves around repurposing a variety of building types. These include warehouses, office spaces, industrial sites, parking garages, shopping centers, and even places of worship. Each type provides potential for transformation into residential units. Modular living spaces can be integrated into these shells, allowing for quick reconfiguration to suit the needs of different communities.

Community Engagement

A key aspect of the design is the creation of communal spaces that encourage social interaction. These shared areas are designed for activities such as reading, gardening, and studying, allowing residents to connect with one another. This focus on community helps build relationships among inhabitants, which enhances the overall living experience in these transformed environments.

Sustainability

Sustainability plays an important role in the project. While specific materials are not heavily detailed, the design promotes energy efficiency and water management practices. This approach aims to reduce the ecological impact of the living spaces. By incorporating sustainable features, the design aligns with growing trends in urban planning that prioritize environmental stewardship.

Housing Accessibility

The initiative tackles the issue of housing accessibility by providing affordable options close to city centers. This proximity allows residents to easily reach jobs and services. By revitalizing previously neglected buildings, the project breathes new life into urban areas, encouraging activity and vibrancy, especially during evening hours.

Natural light is an essential element in the design. Strategically placed windows allow sunlight to enter the deep spaces of these repurposed buildings, creating inviting homes while maintaining the original character of the shells.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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