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Modular Living Spaces Filling Urban Gaps

Author:
Xuecheng Cai
Modular Living Spaces Filling Urban Gaps
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Filling narrow urban gaps, the modular construction harnesses prefabricated units to create flexible and functional living spaces that address housing needs in densely populated areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for rapid assembly and customization.
02
Two distinct module sizes optimize space utilization.
03
Balcony integrates outdoor living with urban views.
04
Flexible layout supports diverse resident needs.
05
Strategic placement enhances community interaction.

The Interstice project offers a practical solution to the challenges of living in a crowded city. Located in an area like Paris, the design focuses on fitting within the spaces found between existing buildings. By doing so, it aims to create usable homes that respond to the needs of urban life. The overall concept revolves around modular construction, allowing for flexibility in the design while addressing housing shortages in a smart way.

Architecture Concept

The building features a narrow and elongated shape, making the most of limited space. It consists of two types of modules: a small size at 1.6m x 3.2m and a larger option measuring 3.2m x 3.2m. These modules are made in a factory and can be assembled on-site, which makes them easy to customize for varying resident needs. This design approach helps in creating an efficient living environment that can adapt as necessary.

Spatial Arrangement

Inside, the layout is organized and accessible, promoting easy movement throughout the building. Key areas include communal spaces for interaction and private rooms for quiet. The arrangement includes essential features like living areas, a gallery kitchen, bedrooms, guest bathrooms, and storage, forming a functional and comfortable home for those living there.

Urban Integration

The design aims to tackle land use challenges in urban neighborhoods that have developed over time. By utilizing space that might otherwise go unused, it helps address housing shortages while breathing new life into the urban landscape. The modular construction technique plays a crucial role in this response, providing an efficient way to meet the demand for housing while respecting the surrounding environment.

Design Detail

A noteworthy feature of the building is its balcony that extends from the living space, offering residents a personal outdoor area. This element adds to the visual appeal and fosters a connection to the bustling city outside. It also creates a practical space for relaxation, enriching the living experience and making urban life more enjoyable.

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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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