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Stepped Form Enhancing Density Through Self-Contained Residences

Author:
Justin Mallia
Stepped Form Enhancing Density Through Self-Contained Residences
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Characterized by a stepped form that enhances density, this development integrates self-contained residences with private outdoor spaces, addressing the need for community-focused living in a suburban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Stepped building form promotes visual interest while enhancing density.
02
Each residence includes private outdoor spaces, fostering a sense of individuality.
03
Design prioritizes natural ventilation through strategic window placements.
04
Unique circulation routes connect homes to a multipurpose ground-floor area.
05
Configurations allow up to 22 self-contained units on a single suburban block.

The design reimagines suburban living by introducing a new housing typology that supports greater density while still allowing for personal expression within each home. Located in a typical suburban area, the project adapts standard residential blocks, which usually accommodate single-family houses, into arrangements suitable for multiple self-contained units. The overall design concept merges traditional suburban characteristics with modern needs, addressing issues related to urban sprawl and architectural involvement in residential projects.

Density and Configuration

The project restructures existing suburban blocks to house up to 22 residences. This significant increase in the number of units on a single site meets the growing demand for housing. Each home maintains a sense of individuality through features like private entrances, spacious backyards, and outdoor sheds. These elements create a feeling of ownership while connecting the homes with their surroundings.

Circulation and Community Interaction

Careful planning of circulation paths enhances the connections between residences. Well-designed pathways link each unit to multipurpose ground-floor spaces, improving accessibility and encouraging social interaction among residents. The layout is optimized for natural ventilation, ensuring that every unit receives adequate light and airflow, which contributes to the comfort of the living spaces.

Privacy and Environmental Considerations

Privacy is an essential element of the design, addressed through thoughtful architectural choices. Each unit has north-facing windows that open up to generous gardens, facilitating outdoor activities while shielding residents from views of neighboring homes. Horizontal screens are used to provide additional separation between levels, allowing each residence to maintain its own identity while still being part of a larger community.

Articulation of Form

The building's design features a stepped and shifting form, breaking up any bulkiness that might arise from higher density. This thoughtful structuring generates visual interest and promotes a lively streetscape. The design is sensitive to the neighborhood's existing character, balancing innovation with the familiar aesthetics of suburban life, which gives the project a cohesive and relatable appearance.

Detailing throughout the design reflects a focus on both personal and communal living, illustrating a deep awareness of the modern suburban landscape. Integrating natural elements with residential spaces encourages connections to the environment, fostering a comprehensive approach to contemporary living arrangements. Each unit serves as a reminder that housing can be functional, comfortable, and integrated into the broader community.

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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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