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Green Atriums and Modular Flats in Urban Densification

Author:
Magdalena Śmieja
Green Atriums and Modular Flats in Urban Densification
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With a focus on green atriums and modular flat configurations, the design promotes urban densification while enhancing community interaction in a Toronto setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible living modules allow for diverse configurations tailored to resident preferences.
02
Internal roofed green atriums enhance natural light and community interaction.
03
Gaps between floors are creatively utilized as pocket parks.
04
The design integrates steel and wood for structural safety and durability.
05
Frontage acquisition promotes vertical circulation and shared community spaces.

The design is located in Toronto, aligning with the city's goals for urban planning as defined in the Avenues & Mid-Rise Building Study. It focuses on increasing housing density while encouraging community interaction. The concept of Flexible Living aims to create residential units that serve both individual needs and foster a sense of belonging among residents.

Independent Construction

The structure uses independent construction methods, mainly relying on steel and wood. These materials provide important safety and support for the multi-story design, ensuring that the building can withstand urban challenges. They contribute to the building's resilience and longevity, making it suitable for its intended use.

Vertical Living and Community Spaces

Acquiring one or two modules of frontage enables vertical circulation and encourages the development of communal spaces. The flats are designed to follow the shapes of existing buildings, allowing for the inclusion of internal roofed green atriums. These atriums not only enhance the living space but also invite nature into the urban setting, giving residents a place to gather and relax.

Adaptability of Living Spaces

The project offers a modular system of accessible rooms that can adapt to different resident preferences. This flexibility allows for various room configurations and encourages customization in elements like window sizes. Such options enable residents to shape their living environments according to personal tastes while maintaining overall design coherence.

Integration of Green Infrastructure

Gaps between the floors serve as pocket parks, adding greenery to the urban landscape. These spaces offer utility and beauty, creating areas where residents can unwind and socialize. The thoughtful approach to design helps weave natural elements into city life, promoting a healthier living environment.

Internal green atriums play an essential role, acting as shared areas where residents can connect with nature. These spaces provide a sense of calm amidst the bustling city, enhancing the quality of life for those who call this place 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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