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V-Shape Design Featuring PPC and Shared Spaces for Diverse Living

Author:
Fermin Ficachi
V-Shape Design Featuring PPC and Shared Spaces for Diverse Living

Project in-detail

The V-shaped structure incorporates PPC materials and communal spaces to create flexible living environments for singles, families, and the elderly in Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
V-shaped design enhances natural light and airflow within units.
02
PPC materials reduce maintenance and improve energy efficiency.
03
Communal areas foster interaction among diverse residents.
04
Dedicated spaces for families and elderly residents ensure accessibility.
05
Strategic zoning separates single and family living needs effectively.

The design located at 1595 Bay View Ave, Toronto, ON M5V 0J2, provides a practical residential solution that meets the varied needs of city residents. The approach centers on flexibility and community, aiming to accommodate everyone from single professionals to families and older adults in an urban setting.

Types of Units

The building features two separate blocks, each designed for specific groups. Block 1 serves singles or couples without children, while Block 2 is meant for families and individuals with disabilities. This division allows for efficient space use and ensures that each group has access to appropriate amenities that fit their respective lifestyles.

Shared Spaces

A key feature of the design is the inclusion of communal areas that encourage social interaction among residents. The project offers various amenities, such as a departmental store, a stationery shop, a pharmacy, and an area for children to play. These shared spaces contribute to a lively environment, making it easier for residents to connect and engage with one another.

Architectural Form

The building is shaped like a "V," a detail that enhances natural light and airflow within the living areas. This form does more than just improve the building’s look; it also helps with energy efficiency, an important factor considering Toronto's weather, which can be cold in winter and humid in summer. The angled design creates open views and improves the quality of life for residents inside.

Materiality

Durability and functionality are central to the choice of materials used in construction. The project incorporates aluminum PPC for window joints, along with double-glazed windows framed in wood and aluminum. Structural elements like floor beams and ceiling boards made from pine and eucalyptus are prominently featured. Laminated wood coverings and concrete are also part of the design, providing strength and longevity.

Significantly, the design pays close attention to accessibility. Units for families and older residents are carefully planned to allow easy movement. Wide corridors and open living spaces make daily life smoother and more comfortable. This emphasis on usability highlights the project's commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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