The (Un)divided City aims to tackle the urgent need for affordable housing in Rome, targeting social housing applicants and people looking to lower their living costs through shared resources. The design focuses on communal living, fostering interaction among residents while aligning with current housing policies. It introduces a micro-scale approach, which challenges conventional ideas about residential spaces and how they are used.

Spatial Organization

The project observes that the average individual in Rome occupies around 30 square meters, yet only uses about 10 square meters regularly. This disparity suggests a need for redesigning residential layouts. The proposed design provides essential private spaces, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, while converting the leftover areas into communal facilities. These shared spaces are meant to promote social integration and offer opportunities for activities like cooking and recreation.

Community Engagement

Careful thought goes into the architectural layout to enhance interactions among residents. The inclusion of meeting rooms, study areas, and recreational spots encourages a sense of community within the housing complex. The design ensures that these communal areas receive ample natural light, creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere that encourages residents to engage with one another and utilize the shared facilities.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with an emphasis on cost-effective construction methods. By creating shared facilities, the design not only helps reduce living expenses but also supports cooperation among residents. This approach may also provide avenues for entrepreneurial efforts that could assist individuals in improving their social standing.

Material Selection

Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the main material for structural elements and internal partitions. Using CLT aligns with the project's sustainable goals, as it is a renewable resource. This choice contributes to a warmer, more welcoming environment compared to traditional materials like concrete or steel. The use of CLT allows for the creation of spaces that foster community and connection, enhancing the overall living experience in this thoughtful design.