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Stacking Timber Units Emphasizing Outdoor Spaces and Community Interaction

Author:
Dana Shihabeddin
Stacking Timber Units Emphasizing Outdoor Spaces and Community Interaction
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Utilizing a stacking boxes approach, the design incorporates wood rainscreen and brick veneer materials to create a community-centered multi-family dwelling that emphasizes private outdoor spaces and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a stacking boxes approach to optimize space efficiency.
02
Incorporates wood rainscreen and brick veneer for a modern aesthetic.
03
Features private outdoor spaces for each unit, enhancing livability.
04
Includes a public plaza to foster community interaction.
05
Designed to maximize natural light through strategic unit orientation.

The design presents a multi-family dwelling located in a bustling urban area, responding to the critical need for affordable housing. The overall concept centers around pre-fabricated Cross-laminated Timber (CLT), chosen for its efficiency and sustainability. The building features a stacking boxes approach, allowing for flexible unit sizes and optimizing available space in a compact environment.

Spatial Configuration

The layout includes a range of residential options, such as three-bedroom, two-bedroom, and one-bedroom units. This variety accommodates different household types, from larger families to individuals or couples looking for smaller spaces. The stacking boxes design maximizes usable areas, enhancing livability while providing functional spaces for everyday activities.

Community Engagement

Designing communal spaces is a key element, fostering interaction among residents. A public plaza serves as an accessible open area, encouraging socializing and connections. Retail spaces included within the complex provide convenience, making it easier for residents to access services and amenities without needing to leave the proximity of their homes.

Natural Elements

The project prioritizes outdoor spaces by incorporating private areas for each unit. These spaces promote outdoor living and help create a balance between built and natural environments. The design also facilitates ample natural light and ventilation through careful orientation, improving the overall atmosphere within the living spaces.

Material Considerations

The choice of materials includes wood rainscreen siding, brick veneer siding, glass block, and anodized aluminum framing. These materials not only offer a contemporary appearance but also ensure durability and low maintenance. Each element is selected to support the overall vision of a modern, functional living environment.

Attention to both shared and private spaces results in a living environment that is both practical and inviting. The design ultimately reflects an understanding of urban life, creating comfortable homes within the complexities of a city.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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