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Glass Box Integration with Modular Living for Community Engagement

Authors:
Li-chung Chang, Hong-jun Lin
Glass Box Integration with Modular Living for Community Engagement
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A glass box serves as the central public space, utilizing the greenhouse effect to enhance energy efficiency within a modular housing project designed to foster community engagement and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central public space designed as a glass box to maximize natural light.
02
Modular units based on a 4x4 meter grid for flexible living arrangements.
03
Utilizes the greenhouse effect for enhanced energy efficiency.
04
Strategic angles of units promote connectivity between different public areas.
05
Adaptable design accommodates varying resident populations and needs.

The "GAME LIFE" project in Toronto aims to provide solutions for affordable housing through smart design and flexible living spaces. The project emphasizes modular arrangements that can adapt to the needs of residents. Its thoughtful layout promotes community interaction while considering environmental impacts, making it a relevant addition to an urban environment.

Design Concept and Spatial Configuration

Residential units are organized within a modular 4x4 meter grid. This arrangement facilitates efficient use of space and allows for flexibility in the design of bedrooms and bathrooms. The project encourages the creation of different layouts by using maximum permutations, ensuring that homes can be adjusted based on the number of residents. This adaptability is essential in addressing the often-changing dynamics of city living.

Public Space and Environmental Strategy

A central feature of the design is the glass box that serves as a public space. This area enhances the building's environmental strategy by harnessing the greenhouse effect to keep the interior warm. The use of glass not only provides natural light but also fosters a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. As residents move through this space, they experience a bright and welcoming atmosphere that invites social interaction.

Connectivity and Community Interaction

The arrangement of unit modules is planned to support connectivity. By varying the angles of these modules, the design creates pathways between different public areas located on multiple floors. This thoughtful layout encourages residents to engage with one another, strengthening community bonds. Accessible communal spaces throughout the building enhance social exchange and support a sense of belonging among residents.

Light and transparency play important roles in this project, with glass being a significant element. This decision allows for a lively exchange between living spaces and the outside world. Natural light fills interiors, creating warmth and openness, which are crucial for nurturing a friendly and interactive community. The overall design reflects a focus on enhancing the residential experience while integrating with the urban fabric of Toronto.

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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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Competition organisers

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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