Needle Suburbia is an innovative response to the need for effective residential solutions in Buenos Aires, targeting young couples who face high rental costs and limited living space. It reconsiders the typical suburban layout by promoting a design that combines communal and private areas within a compact structure. The needle house offers a way to make the most of available land while keeping in mind the distinct spatial needs of modern residents.

Spatial Organization

The layout of Needle Suburbia is thoughtfully arranged across multiple levels, each designed for specific functions. The ground floor acts as a communal hub, providing social interaction areas and essential storage. Transitioning to the first floor, spaces for dining and working are integrated, promoting efficient use of space. This arrangement creates a practical flow that accommodates the daily routines of its inhabitants.

Private and Communal Spaces

The second level contains private areas, including restrooms and places for relaxation, offering residents their much-needed personal space. The third floor is dedicated to sleeping quarters and additional zones for unwinding, creating a retreat from the hustle below. On top, the roof extension serves as an outdoor terrace, enhancing the living experience and allowing for urban farming, which connects residents to nature.

Materiality and Sustainability

The design structure incorporates a steel frame, ensuring strength while allowing for the possibility of future disassembly and prefabrication. This not only supports sustainability but also reflects a modern building approach. The exterior color scheme is inspired by traditional terracotta bricks, ensuring the design harmonizes with the city’s architectural context. Sustainable features include systems for hydroponic farming and photovoltaic panels that generate energy, highlighting the ecological focus of the design.

Geographical Context

Located in Buenos Aires, the project addresses the city’s unique urban characteristics, particularly its grid layout. The design offers solutions for high density while presenting a thoughtful alternative to suburban development that often leads to isolation. By marrying urban life with green spaces, Needle Suburbia crafts a model that fills housing needs and fosters a sense of community.

The needle house is a careful blend of function and comfort, with each level designed to meet diverse living requirements. The green terrace not only enhances aesthetics but also introduces urban farming, making nature an integral part of everyday living.