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Compact Living Units That Foster Community Engagement Through Shared Spaces

Authors:
Sesinee Nimsuwan, Polpipat Naksawat, Teerakan Wattanayon, Ratasakon Chantaluxsul
Compact Living Units That Foster Community Engagement Through Shared Spaces
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Measuring just 6.25 square meters, the modular units promote community engagement through well-defined shared spaces while optimizing living conditions for individuals in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compact units optimize functionality within a 6.25 square meter footprint.
02
Interconnected living areas foster a strong sense of community among residents.
03
Private spaces are thoughtfully designed for individual living needs.
04
Dedicated sharing areas encourage collaboration and social interaction.
05
Modular construction allows for flexibility in urban environments.

The Micro House / Micro Society project addresses the challenges posed by growing population density in urban areas. Designed for modern living, it focuses on the needs of individuals, particularly those who live alone. The overarching goal is to create an efficient and functional environment that balances personal privacy with the opportunity for social interaction.

Private Space
The private space in each unit includes essential living areas suited for individual use. It consists of sleeping quarters, a bathroom, and small recreation zones. These elements are arranged thoughtfully to make the best use of limited space. The design ensures that every square meter serves a purpose, enhancing the overall experience of living in a compact environment.

Community Space
A key aspect of the design is the community space that encourages interactions among residents. This shared area is organized to promote connection and engagement, fostering a sense of belonging. By dividing the living space, the design allows residents to feel at ease and comfortable while interacting, paving the way for meaningful relationships within the community.

Sharing Space
The sharing space is another important feature of the Micro House. It provides an area where residents can come together for communal activities. This space encourages collaboration and support, reinforcing the community spirit. It signifies a shift towards interdependence, highlighting how shared experiences can strengthen ties among residents.

Living units are compact, measuring around 6.25 square meters. This small footprint underscores the importance of designing efficiently in urban settings. While space is limited, the layout remains practical and functional. The arrangement of private and communal areas aims to ensure that residents can enjoy both their personal time and shared moments.

Overall, the project combines personal privacy with community engagement, allowing residents to connect while maintaining their independence. The careful planning of each unit promotes a lifestyle that embraces both individual needs and collective identity, fostering a genuine sense of community in an urban landscape.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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