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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 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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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