Rethinking Multi-Unit Residential: Imagining The Future Of Living

Ideas Rethinking Multi-Unit Residential:

Imagining the Future of Living

In 2018 the United Nations estimated that 55% of the world’s population lived in urban areas and that by 2050 this could increase to 68%. In many urban centres the demand for housing is driving up land and construction costs and as a result unit sizes continue to shrink to remain affordable. The situation has reached breaking point. Floor plans can only be squeezed so much before the quality and functionality of the space is sacrificed. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit and we found ourselves isolating at home while trying to juggle all our normal day-today functions, it underscored the importance of improving the at home wellness experience and finding creative ways to maximise functionality within a limited square footage. In addition to optimising the useability of spaces, we asked ourselves how the design of multi-unit residential can go even further - to support a sense of community and build

Options for the partition modules supporting a variety of live, work and play needs

This thinking led to the exploration of highly flexible and adaptable unit layouts that could be adjusted to suit each resident’s varied and ever-changing needs, while enhancing quality and safety in parallel. We first proposed doing away with fixed rooms and set programmes, replacing static walls with moveable and customisable partition modules. In addition, increased floor-to-floor heights allows for infloor storage and provides flexibility for future changes to mechanical and electrical distribution. Fixed plumbing elements; kitchen, bathrooms and laundry are consolidated within the unit.

The partition modules are designed with integrated functionality, such as storage, furniture, media units and communications platforms. Residents make their selection according to their lifestyle and retain the ability to change their spaces quickly if required. To cut down on construction timelines as well as reduce material waste, the modules will be prefabricated and delivered to site. In future, when more of us may need to work from our compact residences, the prospect of an adaptable household where work and play spaces can be easily separated cannot be underestimated.

Outdoor spaces were also an important element in our analysis. Balconies are often underutilised due to their shallow proportions and exposure to harsh weather in winter months. Our solution is a semi-conditioned space between the interior living areas and balconies that acts as an extension, bringing the outside in, to a functional outdoor room. Conversely it can bring the inside out, to create a greenhouse or solarium. Balconies can be configured to create staggered yards, which also encourages meaningful connections with fellow residents in the vertical community.

Design must play a big part in addressing the challenges and opportunities of living in a post-pandemic world. It can improve the physical and psychological contexts in which we live, work and play. It is clear that for individuals, families and communities, the future is flexible.

Changing spaces for changing lives

[Left] North elevation showing articulated structure. [Right] South elevation showing vertical alleyway.

Baowu Tower, Pudong, Shanghai

The geometrical facades of the tower take inspiration from the DNA of Baowu Steel Group. The podium cantilever reinterprets the classic colonnade to form a welcoming entrance with clear views into the arrival lobby. Courtyard gardens reminiscent of traditional Chinese architecture house a variety of functions and facilities to promote rich street life. The vertical alleyway rising up the structure connects the different neighbourhoods of the building and also acts as a ventilation system, culminating at shared meeting spaces and a roof garden with city views.