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Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework in a Flexible Urban Housing Solution

Author:
Magdalena Śmieja
Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework in a Flexible Urban Housing Solution

Project in-detail

With a focus on charred wooden shingles and a robust steel framework, the design prioritizes modularity and shared spaces in a residential setting to foster community engagement in urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be reconfigured to adapt to changing resident needs over time.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability against the elements.
03
Integrated pocket parks create green spaces that encourage social interaction among residents.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while reducing material use in construction.
05
Sustainable features include energy-efficient systems and strategically placed natural lighting.
The architectural project "Flexible Living" is a residential development designed for a dense urban environment in Toronto, Canada. This project addresses the need for efficient housing solutions that cater to diverse lifestyle requirements. Central to its ethos is the principle of adaptability, allowing residents to customize their living spaces to respond to changing personal needs over time. The design emphasizes modularity and community interaction, promoting a vibrant residential experience within a compact footprint.

The project integrates various architectural elements that contribute to its overall function. Vertically oriented residential units have been designed with flexibility in mind, allowing configurations that can be adjusted for personal use. Shared communal areas such as corridors and green spaces serve as conduits for social engagement, enhancing the connection among residents. The project’s thoughtful material selection prioritizes sustainability, using steel, wood, concrete, glass, and vegetation to create a harmonious balance between structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Innovative Design Approaches and Community Engagement

A notable aspect of "Flexible Living" is its emphasis on vertical modularity. This design feature allows for the reconfiguration of floor plans, enabling residents to modify their spaces without extensive renovations. The architecture includes internal circulation paths that are designed to encourage interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community. These shared corridors are not merely functional; they serve as social spaces that enhance the overall quality of life within the complex.

The incorporation of pocket parks and green areas within the development further distinguishes this project. These spaces offer recreational opportunities and contribute to the biodiversity of the urban environment. By weaving nature into the fabric of the residential experience, the design promotes wellness and sustainability while addressing the need for green spaces in urban settings.

Focus on Sustainability and Material Selection

Sustainability is a core consideration in the "Flexible Living" project. The architectural design integrates energy-efficient systems and materials that minimize environmental impact. Key materials such as steel and wood provide structural stability while considering the lifecycle of construction elements. The use of glass not only enhances natural light within living spaces but also creates visual connections to the outdoors, aligning with contemporary architectural practices aimed at reducing energy consumption.

Residents will benefit from shared amenities designed to support communal living, such as laundry facilities and recreational spaces. These features shift the focus from individual resource consumption to shared benefits, promoting a more sustainable and equitable living arrangement. The architecture aims to cultivate a lifestyle that balances privacy with community engagement, situating itself as a forward-thinking solution in residential design.

Explore the full project presentation for more details on the architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas that shape "Flexible Living." Gain deeper insights into this project’s unique approach to urban housing and its potential impact on the future of urban environments.
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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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