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Timber Panels and Portable Units Enhancing Urban Living Flexibility

Authors:
Mehdi Gharibi, Shima Kheyri
Timber Panels and Portable Units Enhancing Urban Living Flexibility
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Portable units and strategically designed timber panels create adaptable living spaces that respond to the diverse needs of urban residents in Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy reconfiguration based on user needs.
02
Timber panels provide both structural integrity and insulation.
03
Rooftop gardens enhance urban greening and sustainability.
04
A delivery shaft system ensures privacy during deliveries.
05
Folding balconies create multifunctional outdoor spaces.

TURNING DIVERSITY is a project that focuses on modular living solutions designed for urban settings. Located in Toronto, it addresses the varying needs of city residents by offering flexible and customizable spaces. With prefabricated modular units at its core, the design aims to create adaptable environments that reflect the diverse lifestyle of the city's inhabitants.

Design Concept
The idea behind TURNING DIVERSITY is to utilize standard modular timber panels to assemble different types of living spaces. This approach supports both individual and shared living arrangements, allowing people to personalize their homes according to their specific requirements. The design integrates several functional areas like living rooms, bedrooms, and workspaces, fostering engagement and connections among residents.

Materials and Structure
The main structural element consists of timber panels that contribute to the project’s modular framework. Brackets provide essential support, allowing for efficient construction and adaptability in design. The use of thermal and humidity insulation helps ensure comfort while also improving energy performance. These choices reflect a practical approach to meeting the demands of urban living.

Innovative Features
TURNING DIVERSITY includes portable units that provide added flexibility. These self-contained structures give residents the option to change their living configurations as their needs evolve. A folding entrance balcony enhances security and can adapt to the space requirements of residents. Inside, a folding staircase leads to possible rooftop gardens, supporting environmentally friendly practices and promoting green spaces in an urban setting.

User-Centric Approach
The design prioritizes the needs of its users, with features that enhance daily living experiences. For example, a delivery shaft reduces the need for face-to-face interaction with delivery personnel, which improves privacy and safety. This thoughtful approach reflects an understanding of the challenges faced by urban dwellers and creates an environment where each unit serves as both a private space and a hub for community interaction.

The integration of modular elements with innovative design in TURNING DIVERSITY establishes a setting that supports urban lifestyles while ensuring adaptability. Each unit invites natural light and promotes airflow, enhancing the living experience for all its residents.

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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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