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Community Engagement Through Rotatable Cells and Outdoor Balconies

Authors:
Lingqing Xu, Junxin Song, Wei Zhou
Community Engagement Through Rotatable Cells and Outdoor Balconies
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The integration of rotatable cells with outdoor balconies creates a dynamic living environment that facilitates community interaction while serving as a quarantine space for travelers in Shanghai.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotatable inner core allows for flexible space utilization.
02
Each quarantine cell includes an outdoor balcony for natural light.
03
Shared community spaces promote interaction and support.
04
Modular design enables rapid adjustments based on health needs.
05
Transportable cells facilitate quick relocation to medical facilities.

Quarant-IN is a thoughtful approach to rethinking quarantine measures during a pandemic. Located in a busy area of Shanghai, it aims to change the experience of travelers who need to quarantine. The design emphasizes community and interaction rather than isolation, allowing individuals to engage with each other while observing health protocols.

Modular Structure

Flexibility is a key feature of the design, achieved through a modular structure. The project includes a rotatable inner core that enhances the use of space. The first tier has a rotatable corridor that facilitates easy movement and encourages interaction among people. The second tier contains individual quarantine cells, each with an outdoor balcony for fresh air and a connection to the outside. The third tier features multifunctional rooms that can serve different needs, improving overall quality of life during the quarantine period.

Shared Spaces

Shared spaces play an important role in creating a sense of community. These areas include activity rooms, family visit zones, and communication spaces. They are designed to help reduce feelings of isolation that can arise in quarantine situations. The ground level includes designated disinfection rooms to ensure health measures are met while providing easy access for residents. This layout focuses on balancing safety with social interaction, reinforcing a supportive environment for all occupants.

Transportable Quarantine Cells

The design also incorporates transportable quarantine cells. These units can be moved quickly, allowing for efficient relocation to medical facilities if necessary. The mobility of these cells aids in managing public health demands. Advanced logistical solutions may include drone assistance for transportation, improving the efficiency of the quarantine process. This feature aligns well with current health considerations and enhances the practicality of the environment.

Natural elements are integrated into the cells, with each unit featuring access to outdoor balconies. This allows individuals to enjoy fresh air while in quarantine, breaking the monotony often associated with confinement. The design carefully considers both health safety and personal well-being, offering a new perspective on what a quarantine experience can be.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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