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Protruding Volumes and Versatile Spaces in Sustainable Wood Housing

Authors:
Artem Tokunov, Anna Kurtvaapova
Protruding Volumes and Versatile Spaces in Sustainable Wood Housing
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With its unique protruding volumes and efficient assembly of modular wood units, the design provides adaptable and affordable housing solutions that meet contemporary urban needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are prefabricated off-site for efficient construction.
02
Protruding volumes enhance both aesthetics and usable space.
03
A central technical area supports essential services and utilities.
04
Customizable facade options allow for individual expression.
05
Designed to adapt to various urban contexts and community needs.

The modular home project in Toronto aims to solve the city's pressing housing problem by providing affordable and quality living spaces. By combining mobility with the comfort typically associated with traditional homes, the design blends elements of rural and urban living. The structure features a spatial frame, promoting efficient assembly and integration within the city. This approach allows for both practicality and an appealing look.

Design Concept

Factory readiness is central to the design. Each floor consists of four modular blocks that are built off-site and then brought together at the construction site. This method speeds up the building process, reducing the time it takes to deliver new housing. Such efficiency is essential in responding to the growing need for affordable homes in urban areas. The modular design also allows for easy adjustments to meet different requirements.

Visual and Functional Elements

The project is characterized by protruding volumes that create an interesting silhouette. These elements offer a sculptural quality, helping the building stand out within its setting. The varying textures used on the facade contribute to visual richness while allowing for personalization through different design choices. Such features not only engage the viewers but also enhance the overall character of the building.

Structural Organization

Each module operates as a self-contained unit, yet together they create a unified living space. A central technical area is strategically located to house essential engineering systems, ensuring the smooth operation of utilities and services. This attention to functionality shows a thoughtful connection between practical needs and architectural design, making sure that each module serves its purpose effectively.

Materials

The design incorporates wood, metal, and concrete to form the structure. These materials support the building's strength while also adding to its aesthetic. The choice of materials reflects current trends that emphasize sustainability and longevity in construction. This careful selection enhances the overall environment of the modular home.

The thoughtful combination of materials and design elements results in a functional living space that caters to the needs of urban residents. Each module invites a sense of individuality while contributing to a larger community feel.

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MICROHOME 2026
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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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