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Repurposed Containers Creating Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Seis Arquitectura, Juan Suarez, James Chaves, Daniel Torres
Repurposed Containers Creating Sustainable Urban Living
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Repurposed shipping containers form a sustainable urban community in Leslieville, focused on affordability and adaptability for diverse residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers serve as the primary housing units.
02
Modular construction allows for quick assembly and disassembly.
03
Rainwater collection systems reduce long-term utility costs.
04
The design includes integrated green roofs for environmental sustainability.
05
The project promotes community interaction through shared public spaces.

The Hive is located in Leslieville, Toronto, and aims to address the challenges of housing affordability and urban density. In a city known for its high real estate prices, the design focuses on creating accessible homes that can be built quickly. The concept revolves around modularity and adaptability, making it easier to assemble and disassemble housing units as needed.

Sustainable Design Approach

The design prioritizes sustainability by incorporating features such as a rainwater collection system. This system helps to lower long-term operational costs and reflects a commitment to resource conservation. The Hive also integrates green roofs and public spaces to enhance ecological connections. These elements encourage community interaction and emphasize the importance of sustainable practices in urban living.

Material Utilization

Abandoned shipping containers serve as the primary material for construction. These containers are repurposed into living spaces and contribute to the project's unique character. This material choice highlights the potential for reusing existing resources, aligning with sustainable building practices. The result is a modern aesthetic that sets The Hive apart from typical housing developments.

Adaptability and Inclusion

The modular layout allows for flexibility, accommodating a variety of residents, from individuals to families. This variety promotes inclusivity and social interaction among neighbors. The design also reduces travel distances, making it easier for residents to access jobs and services. This simple approach fosters a sense of community and connection in urban living.

The facade features interlinked units, inviting green spaces, and communal areas that engage with the surroundings. This design element reinforces the focus on community-oriented living.

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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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