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Steel Frame Community Units with Outdoor Access in Urban Environments

Author:
Samantha Hill
Steel Frame Community Units with Outdoor Access in Urban Environments
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Stacked steel frame units with direct outdoor access redefine urban living in Downtown Los Angeles by integrating residential and communal spaces within a versatile mixed-use environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Prefabricated units are constructed off-site for efficient assembly.
02
Units allow direct outdoor access, promoting interaction with surroundings.
03
Stacked design maximizes vertical space for better land use.
04
A central circulation core enhances accessibility for all occupants.
05
Steel frame structure supports a versatile mixed-use environment.

The design features a collection of prefabricated units situated in Downtown Los Angeles, specifically within the Westlake Neighborhood. The project aims to redefine urban living by integrating residential, commercial, and communal spaces into a cohesive framework. It focuses on modular design, promoting efficiency while creating vibrant living environments that encourage community interaction.

Design Concept

The concept revolves around a stacked layout that utilizes vertical space effectively. This arrangement includes both single-story and double-story units, designed to cater to a variety of residential and commercial uses. Each unit allows for direct outdoor access, fostering a connection between living spaces and the surrounding environment.

Circulation and Accessibility

A key element of the design is the efficient circulation system. A central vertical core works in tandem with horizontal exterior corridors, making movement throughout the structure straightforward. This configuration enhances accessibility for all residents and visitors. Stacking the units not only optimizes the use of land but also promotes social connections among occupants, reinforcing a sense of community.

Structural System

The design incorporates a steel frame structure, chosen for its strength and versatility. Prefabricated units enable quicker construction through assembly on-site rather than traditional methods. This choice of materials aligns with modern architectural practices, allowing for an adaptable solution that meets the demands of mixed-use spaces.

Integration of Outdoor Spaces

The project emphasizes outdoor areas, providing residents with easy access to communal spaces. These outdoor features enhance the living experience, offering opportunities for relaxation and socializing. Careful planning of the units and outdoor spaces creates a harmonious environment where private and communal life can coexist.

Landscaped elements throughout the project connect the units to nature, inviting residents to enjoy the outdoors and interact with their surroundings. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces fosters a balance between urban living and a connection to nature.

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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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Competition organisers

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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