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Flexible Living Spaces in Urban Infill Design

Author:
Brandon Saunders
Flexible Living Spaces in Urban Infill Design
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Arranged around a central plumbed column, the micro-apartments redefine urban living by maximizing space efficiency and promoting a sense of community among independent residents in Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular system designed for underutilized parking spaces in Toronto.
02
Central plumbed column allows for unique spatial organization.
03
Micro-apartments promote adaptability without traditional walls.
04
Emphasis on community integration to reduce social stigma.
05
Flexible living spaces accommodate diverse resident needs.

IN:FILL HOUSE is a modular housing system designed to meet the need for affordable single-occupant rentals and family homes in Toronto. It cleverly makes use of underutilized parking spaces found within existing residential areas. The project aims to tackle modern housing issues by creating compact, fully independent living spaces that encourage community involvement and address the negative perceptions often linked to affordable housing.

Modular Design and Organization

The layout of IN:FILL HOUSE features micro-apartments arranged around a central plumbed column that extends through three floors. This column not only supports the structure but also redefines how space is used. By doing away with traditional walls, the design promotes a sense of openness while separating different living areas. This configuration allows residents to adapt their spaces according to personal preferences and needs.

Community Integration

A key element of IN:FILL HOUSE is its focus on building connections among residents. Many affordable housing developments can result in feelings of isolation, but this design encourages interaction. By blending with the existing neighborhood, the housing units invite a diverse range of people to live within them. The emphasis on visibility and community engagement helps create a welcoming environment that fosters relationships.

Functional Living Spaces

Each micro-apartment includes a large multifunctional area that serves various purposes, such as living, dining, and working. This flexibility is essential for maximizing the use of space. Residents can transition easily between activities without the need for permanent renovations. Thoughtful planning and design ensure that all areas are practical and can fit individual lifestyles.

The innovative approach taken in IN:FILL HOUSE allows residents to enjoy a sense of freedom in their living spaces. It challenges traditional ideas about urban housing, showing how a well-designed environment can contribute to a thriving community. The project reimagines the possibilities of urban living, encouraging a deeper connection to the spaces people call home.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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