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Modular Living Spaces with Sliding Prefabricated Units in an Urban Environment

Authors:
Tarek Radwan, Maroun Semaan
Modular Living Spaces with Sliding Prefabricated Units in an Urban Environment
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Sliding prefabricated units create flexible living spaces that adapt to the diverse needs of urban residents in Las Vegas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be expanded or contracted based on resident needs.
02
Prefabricated external rooms attach to the building from multiple sides.
03
A structural grid enhances circulation and stability throughout the design.
04
Community shared spaces foster social interaction among residents.
05
The architecture integrates sustainability by optimizing resource use.

The Expandable Housing project in Las Vegas addresses the increasing need for affordable and adaptable living spaces. Situated in a bustling urban environment, it aims to serve a diverse range of residents, including families, couples, and single professionals. The primary design concept focuses on flexibility and modularity, allowing the building to respond to the varied demands of its inhabitants.

Modularity

The design features sliding prefabricated external rooms that can be attached to the main structure from various sides and floors. This allows residents to adjust their living spaces according to their personal needs. The ability to expand or reduce space is vital in a city like Las Vegas, where housing requirements can change frequently. This modular approach ensures that the architecture can grow with its residents.

Structural Framework

The project employs a strong structural grid that supports the prefabricated units. This grid enhances stability and promotes efficient movement within the living areas. The arrangement is designed to keep the living space organized and easy to navigate. It provides a solid foundation for each unit while maximizing usability and accessibility.

Community Integration

Shared communal spaces are incorporated within the design to encourage social interaction among residents. These areas allow people to come together, fostering connections in a place where individuals may often feel isolated. The thoughtful placement of community spaces helps create an environment where relationships can develop, contributing to a sense of belonging within the community.

The combination of personal flexibility and collective living options creates a unique housing solution that meets the needs of a growing and diverse population. Each unit is designed to accommodate individual preferences while providing access to communal areas, enhancing the overall living experience for all residents.

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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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