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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Urban Living Space

Author:
Somdatta Majumdar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and modular construction, the design creates an inviting urban living environment that promotes community interaction while maximizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Features vertical gardens that improve air quality and promote biodiversity.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
04
Designed with flexible modular units to adapt to changing residential needs.
05
Integrates communal spaces that foster social interaction among residents.
The Co-Living Pods project in Toronto represents a progressive approach to urban housing that caters to contemporary needs for affordability, community, and sustainability. Architecturally designed to address the challenges of urban living, this project emphasizes shared experiences while providing private retreats for residents. By merging individual living spaces with communal areas, the Co-Living Pods promote a lifestyle that encourages interaction among residents, thus fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Functionally, the Co-Living Pods serve as a multifamily residential solution designed to reduce the strain of rising housing costs in urban environments. The architecture reflects a commitment to maximizing space utilization while ensuring that residents have access to essential amenities. Each pod is equipped with basic living necessities but includes ample shared facilities such as kitchens, lounges, and recreational areas designed to encourage socialization. This functional layout is particularly relevant as it not only addresses individual needs but also provides communal spaces that enhance community engagement and interaction.

The design of the Co-Living Pods is notable for its innovative modular structure that allows flexibility and adaptability in residential layouts. This architectural approach enables the integration of various unit types within the same building, catering to different family structures and lifestyles. The use of modular components simplifies construction while maintaining high design standards. This flexibility is a crucial aspect of the project, allowing for easy adaptation as community needs evolve over time.

A distinctive feature of the Co-Living Pods is its strategic integration of green spaces. The architecture thoughtfully incorporates roof gardens and vertical terraces, creating naturalistic elements that contribute to environmental sustainability. These green areas not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the building but also enhance biodiversity within an urban context. By focusing on creating outdoor spaces that residents can enjoy, the project encourages a healthy lifestyle and promotes outdoor activities among the residents.

The materials selected for the Co-Living Pods further reflect both contemporary architectural trends and a commitment to sustainability. Glass is extensively used in the facades to facilitate natural light, creating bright and welcoming interiors while allowing residents to visually connect with the surrounding cityscape. Wood features prominently in interior spaces, introducing warmth and comfort into the design. Concrete provides the necessary structural support and durability, ensuring that the buildings can withstand urban challenges. Metal accents contribute a modern touch and serve functional purposes in both safety and design elements.

Ultimately, the Co-Living Pods project is characterized by a comprehensive understanding of modern urban living and the specific challenges that arise within dense city environments. The thoughtful arrangement of private and communal spaces, combined with a strong emphasis on sustainability, distinguishes this project within the architectural landscape of Toronto. The balance of individual privacy with communal engagement provides a model for future housing developments, demonstrating that it is possible to create environments that meet diverse residential needs while fostering strong community ties.

For readers interested in exploring the architectural details further, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas presented in the Co-Living Pods project, additional resources will provide deeper insights into its design philosophy and implementation. Engaging with these elements will reveal the thoughtful craftsmanship and intentional design decisions that underpin this significant contribution to urban housing in Toronto.
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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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