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Modular Housing Units Supporting Community Connectivity

Authors:
Roberto Carlando, María Antonia Cartagena Sevillano
Modular Housing Units Supporting Community Connectivity
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Combining modular design and a focus on community connectivity, the versatile housing units offer adaptable living configurations for urban residents in Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for diverse living configurations tailored to family needs.
02
Each housing module is designed with standard dimensions of 7 x 7 meters.
03
The project emphasizes community engagement through thoughtful spatial arrangements.
04
Prefabricated components may streamline construction and minimize waste.
05
Adaptable design promotes interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community.

The project focuses on developing modular housing units to address the pressing need for affordable living spaces in urban areas, particularly in Toronto. The design concept revolves around a modular system that offers flexibility in housing configurations, catering to the diverse needs of families and social groups. By emphasizing a thoughtful arrangement of space, the aim is to create functional environments within a dense urban context.

Modular System Design

A modular approach serves as the foundation of the design. It starts with basic structural units that can be combined or altered to create more intricate architectural shapes. This method enables the breakdown of traditional building forms into more fluid designs. Each module measures 7 x 7 meters with a height of 3.50 meters, which establishes a consistent framework for building. This standardization helps shorten construction time.

Adaptability and Community Engagement

The units are designed for adaptability, allowing configurations that can include one to multiple modules. This variety makes it possible to accommodate different family sizes and lifestyles, contributing to a sense of community among residents. By enhancing the spatial layout, the design encourages interaction, making it conducive for people to connect with their neighbors. Social engagement is a focal point in the arrangement of the housing complex.

Potential for Sustainable Practices

Although specific materials are not mentioned in the presentation, the modular system suggests the possible use of prefabricated elements. Such an approach can streamline construction while lowering costs. Additionally, it may contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing waste. This method aligns well with the goal of creating practical housing solutions that respond to the demands of modern urban living.

The organization of space allows for easy customization, enabling residents to create their preferred living configurations. This focus on adaptability and community connection reflects a commitment to designing environments that are in tune with the needs of their inhabitants and the evolving dynamics of urban life.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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