“Boxy” isn’t a term used to describe multi-unit residential facilities in a positive light, but with the right design, it can be.
Inspired by the simple shipping container and their use in some circles as housing options, the (Un)Boxy Short-Term Housing Complex features a series of 25-by-11 foot boxes stacked end-to-end and side-by-side to create housing facilities that can be as large or small as needed – from a single unit to more than 100 units.
In the three-story project (pictured below), the individual units can be recessed or pulled out at random intervals to create visual movement in the structure’s design. This also creates attractive shadow lines on the exterior and turns a simple series of boxes into an aesthetically pleasing finished product. (Also note the interesting effect this movement can have on the facility’s hallway in the first floor plan.)
This design can be combined for quad plex housing (above right) or dormitory housing for use on college campuses, urban communities or suburban apartments. It is designed to be environmentally friendly, and can set on standard floor systems.
Dormitory design
Quad plex housing design
BOTTOM LINE: Sometimes, thinking outside the box involves finding new ways to put the box to good use.
To download a PDF that includes all features of this plan, please click here.
Like it? Don’t like it? Think something should be changed or added? Please feel free to comment on this design by leaving a comment below.
Tags: C - Commercial residental
Design looks workable, but I would have questions with what appears to be the window wall. Are they Commerical grade units? What type of window coverings did you have in mind?
This is a nice drawing of building and the house looks great i think it has taken experience and much effort to come with such drawing. The one who drew this is an expert
Yohane Malawi
Man, give a guy a pencil and paper and the ones with imagination
and God given talent can really produce amazing things. Great job.
Jeff
I like the visual interest from staggering the units in the dormitory. It reminds me of the old library card catalog file drawers stacked up waiting for the librarian to put them away.
Living within the box… I like the concept. I especially like the dormitory design. Perhaps though other “lighter” colors could be used to make it look bigger.
You know so many interesting infomation. You might be very wise. I like such people. Don’t top writing.
How would the roof system work on this?
These could be a great building to help the people of Haiti. ……Aspire to be great – then help others.