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Hexagonal Living Units with Wood Frame Construction for Affordable Housing

Author:
Wael El Gendy
Hexagonal Living Units with Wood Frame Construction for Affordable Housing
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Utilizing a hexagonal modular system and a wood frame structure, the design offers a flexible arrangement of affordable living units that prioritize community interaction and efficient use of space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal units maximize spatial efficiency by eliminating gaps.
02
Adaptable design allows placement on sites as narrow as nine feet.
03
Multiple housing types cater to diverse family structures and needs.
04
Incorporates public pathways for enhanced community engagement.
05
Wood frame construction promotes sustainable building practices.

The design features a hexagonal modular system in Toronto that aims to tackle the issue of affordable housing. By using hexagonal shapes, the design creates interconnected residential units that maximize space in an efficient way. This configuration allows for effective use of the area and promotes a sense of community among residents. The project thoughtfully combines modern living with the realities of urban life.

Architectural Concept

The design relies on the hexagon, a shape that fits together without leaving gaps, which means it can effectively use the designated space. The modular system is adaptable, capable of fitting sites that have a minimum width of nine feet. This versatility supports various arrangements and encourages social interaction among the people living there.

Unit Variations

Several different types of units are included in the design—A, B, C, and D—to serve various needs and lifestyles. Unit Type A is 250 square feet, made up of one 10-foot hexagon split into two levels for two residents. Unit Type B is larger at 500 square feet, featuring two staggered 10-foot hexagons in a three-level structure for four occupants. Unit Type C, which offers 550 square feet, consists of two side-by-side 10-foot hexagons arranged across two levels for four residents. Finally, Unit Type D includes three 6-foot hexagons, totaling 150 square feet, designed for two occupants.

Materiality and Structure

Wood is used for the frame of the structure, a common material in affordable housing in Canada. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainable building practices. Timber not only supports efficient construction but also adds warmth and character to each unit. The material choice is both practical and environmentally friendly.

Public Spaces and Accessibility

The design also includes public pathways that improve accessibility and promote interaction among residents. These open-air paths allow for easy movement between private and shared spaces within the building. They help residents engage with one another and connect with the surrounding urban area. The careful layout encourages a sense of community, which is essential for modern living.

Combining efficient design with accessible public spaces creates a residential solution that meets today's urban needs. Each unit not only serves as a home but also contributes to a connected community where interaction is encouraged.

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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.

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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