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Vertical Louvers and Compact Form in Community Housing Integration

Author:
Alex Cook
Vertical Louvers and Compact Form in Community Housing Integration
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Asymmetrical forms and vertical louvers create a unique visual identity while fostering social interaction within compact, community-oriented housing in Berlin's historic center.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compact courtyards enhance community engagement.
02
Vertical louvers provide shading and privacy for residents.
03
Asymmetrical building forms integrate with historical context.
04
Allotments promote urban gardening and green spaces.
05
Flexible floor plans allow for adaptable living arrangements.

The project is located in the historic center of Berlin, addressing the need for housing in a densely populated urban area. It focuses on revitalizing previously neglected sites by creating a community-oriented living environment. The design concept combines elements from classical and modern architectures, promoting a blend of comfort and functionality while fostering social interactions among residents.

Conceptual Framework

The design centers around small communal areas that sit alongside larger suburban units. These spaces encourage neighborly connections, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The inclusion of smaller housing units features gardening allotments, which allow residents to engage with nature, promoting a holistic living experience.

Design Development

The initial stages of the design use simple vertical walls to define the facades. Each unit is compact, providing an effective use of space while allowing for clear architectural expression. The floors are strategically offset, creating outdoor spaces that offer both privacy and shade. This practical approach aligns with modernist principles and emphasizes the functionality of each living space.

Community Engagement

Incorporating communal courtyards is key to enhancing social interactions among residents. These shared areas promote gatherings, fostering a sense of belonging in the neighborhood. The merging of mass-produced housing elements with individual suburban units addresses a range of social classes, contributing to an inclusive living environment.

Construction and Material Strategies

The construction strategy emphasizes flexibility through replaceable parts in the floor plans. Structural support is provided by steel beams, ensuring durability. Metal panels and vertical louvers further enhance the buildings' performance and appearance. These material choices reflect a sustainable approach that is in line with modern construction practices.

The design concludes with an asymmetrical visual character that enhances density while respecting the historical surroundings. It integrates well into Berlin's urban landscape, creating a relevant addition to the city's evolving architecture.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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