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Elevated Living with High-Tensile Connections and Community Green Spaces

Author:
Gyubin Lee
Elevated Living with High-Tensile Connections and Community Green Spaces
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Using a piloti framework and high-tensile connections, the development offers modular, affordable housing that prioritizes community interaction and integrates vibrant green spaces throughout its urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Housing modules are arranged within a flexible 15m x 15m grid, enhancing personal adaptability.
02
The use of piloti elevates the first floor, creating essential parking and outdoor community space below.
03
Vibrant color schemes derived from the Vancouver flag promote local identity and aesthetic connection.
04
Integrated gardens throughout the site reinforce environmental sensitivity and community engagement.
05
High-tensile bolts secure the modular units, allowing for straightforward assembly and stability.

WYW House is located in Vancouver, Canada, designed to meet the urgent demand for affordable housing in the city. The focus is on creating modular living spaces that allow flexibility and encourage community interaction. Each unit is arranged within a 15m x 15m grid, making efficient use of space while empowering residents to personalize their living environments.

Modular Design

The structure is built using a modular system that promotes easy assembly and arrangement of the units. Each module comes furnished with necessary items, enabling residents to adapt their spaces to their lifestyles. This thoughtful design allows for diverse living arrangements within a unified architectural framework.

Piloti Framework

A key aspect of WYW House is the use of piloti, which lifts the first floor off the ground, providing both parking and outdoor space beneath. This choice is practical for the heavy rainfall common in the area and enhances pedestrian access. By elevating the building, it creates a sense of openness and maintains the visual balance with Vancouver's skyline.

Color and Identity

The color scheme of WYW House draws from the Vancouver flag, incorporating yellow, green, blue, and white, alongside red. These colors reflect important elements of the city. The vibrant palette not only draws attention to the building but also creates a connection to the local culture and landscape, adding depth to the architectural concept.

Community Spaces

Common areas are an integral part of WYW House, designed to foster social interactions among residents. Spaces for barbecues and outdoor activities are thoughtfully placed throughout the development, complemented by gardens that enhance the overall environment. These shared areas help build community connections, emphasizing the importance of social life in residential settings.

The housing modules utilize high-tensile bolts at each corner for secure assembly. This method ensures stability while simplifying the process of putting the units together or taking them apart. It reflects a focus on practical living solutions, catering to the needs of residents in an urban context.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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