Silver Architecture, Building and Structure Design · 2020
The Square Housing Units
- A' Design Award 2020 Silver Winner in Architecture, Building and Structure Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Mohamed Yasser Designs
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 39,542
- Verification code CECCFE9FF8 · Verify this award
About The Square Housing Units
The Design idea was to study architectural relations between different shapes that are being composed together to create like moving units. The Project consists of 6 units each one is 2 shipping containers fixed over each other forming an L Shape Mass. these L shaped units are fixed in overlapping positions creating Voids and Solid to give the feeling of movement and to provide sufficient daylight and a good ventilation environment. The main design goal was to create a small house for those who spend the night in the streets with no home or shelter.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The conceptual idea was to study architectural relations between different geometrical shapes that are being composed together to create like a new movable mass. The Project consists of 6 units each one is a 2 shipping containers fixed over each other forming a mass like L shape. these L shaped units are fixed in overlapping positions creating Voids and Solid to give the feeling of movement and to provide sufficient natural light and a well-ventilated environment.
- Dimensions & Packaging
- - Plot Area: 23 m x 21 m
- The Unit is made from two Shipping Containers the bigger one is 13.58 (L) x 3.35 m (W) x 2.69 m (H) and the smaller one is 6.90 m (L) x 2.35 m (W) x 2.25 m (H).
- Total Area per Unit: 48 sqm
- Total Area per Units (6 Units): 288 sqm
- Total Height of the Units: 10.5 m - Tags
- Architecture, Design, Construction, Shelter, Nanotechnology, Modern, Residential, Egypt, Containers
- Production Technology
- - Main structure: shipping containers
- exterior light grey gypsum wall cladding panels
- Double glazed windows
- Matt Walnut Wood
- Nanotechnology coatings are used in the project in every part to improve efficiency and energy consumption and to be environment-friendly. Nanotechnology is applied in the units as follows :
- Glass is fitted with SiO2 coating that is called self-cleaning glass, this coating reduces maintenance cost and keeps the glass clean for years
- The walls and floors are fitted with a self-cleaning and anti-bacterial coating that keeps the indoor and outdoor environment clean. - Design Challenge
- The challenge of the design was to create the most efficient residential units with limited areas for the homeless and the poor living in the streets in developing countries, as some of these countries have the problem of slums that deteriorate the cities' architectural context. The Units are designed to be fitted together to create geometrical shapes in shifting positions to benefit from small spaces of land and creating the largest number of units.
- Project Duration
- The project started in July 2019 as a concept idea and supposed to be applied in developing countries.
- Operation Flow
- - Entrances: the Hexa-condos has several entrances to the court, almost from every side
- Vertical circulation: to reach upper units there are two staircases fitted in the project in opposite sides
- Unit interior circulation: main spaces in the unit are a living room next to it the kitchen, then the bathroom beside it the stairs to the upper level which is the bedroom and the shaded balcony
- Outdoor Events: The central court and backyard can be a multi-use for events and different activities. - Research
- The design concept was based on research for the most common problem in developing countries which was how to afford proper housing especially for the poor and needy people. the main objective was to design a small economic and eco-friendly residential unit with the lowest cost possible, this is designed with the flexibility to add and subtract according to what you need and what you wish to design. The idea will use simple tools and materials with the ability of recycling, all of these units can be installed and furnished in the site according to the design.
- Inspiration
- The Main formation of the units is derived from the Tetris game that depends on a specific unit shape which has the features to create different formations from this unit. each unit is like an L shape and they are all fitted together to create a shallow cube with central court-inspired from Islamic and Arab traditional houses architecture which provides privacy and airflow for the units to provide a natural ventilation system
- Image Credits
- Mohamed Yasser - Mohamed Yasser Designs, 2019
Colors of The Square Housing Units
Get The Square Housing Units
Design Interview about The Square Housing Units
The Square Housing Units. The design concept was based on research for the most common problem in developing countries which was how to afford proper housing especially for the poor and needy people. the main objective was to design a small economic and eco-friendly residential unit with the lowest cost possible, this is designed with the flexibility to add and subtract according to what you need and what you wish to design. The idea will use simple tools and materials with the ability of recycling, all of these units can be installed and furnished in the site according to the design.
The Main formation of the units is derived from the Tetris game that depends on a specific unit shape which has the features to create different formations from this unit. each unit is like an L shape and they are all fitted together to create a shallow cube with central court-inspired from Islamic and Arab traditional houses architecture which provides privacy and airflow for the units to provide a natural ventilation system
The Main formation of the units is derived from the Tetris game that depends on a specific unit shape which has the features to create different formations from this unit. each unit is like an L shape and they are all fitted together to create a shallow cube with central court-inspired from Islamic and Arab traditional houses architecture which provides privacy and airflow for the units to provide a natural ventilation system
The main focus was to design a small group of housing units in a limited area without being crowded or not achieving privacy for each unit, I wanted to create a cozy housing environment that has its own privacy and design language, and this what I did in this project.
I plan to see this project being established in the future.
It took nearly about two months
The challenge of the design was to create the most efficient residential units with limited areas for the homeless and the poor living in the streets in developing countries, as some of these countries have the problem of slums that deteriorate the cities' architectural context. The Units are designed to be fitted together to create geometrical shapes in shifting positions to benefit from small spaces of land and creating the largest number of units. The Design was an inspirational project based on studies and regulations and planned to be established in the future.
I am planning to deal with companies or sponsors who can adopt my idea and make it come to reality
No, I developed the whole Idea from A to Z
Basically the homeless, street children, and refugees, but also the project can be designed as a modern house for people who love innovation and relaxation
The Square it's driven from many things, The Main formation of the units are derived from the Tetris game that depends on a specific unit shape which has the features to create different formations from this unit. each unit is like an L shape and they are all fitted together to create a shallow cube with central court-inspired from Islamic and Arab traditional houses architecture which provides privacy and airflow for the units to provide a natural ventilation system, and the name means and refers to the inner square court that should bring all the units together, creating a cozy small community.
first I used the hand sketches, then developed the concept on the google Sketchup, then the phase of the rendering I used the Twinmotion Engine to create the photos for the project.
The Optimal use of spaces and units formation and overlapping system
No, I only searched for the specifications of the shipping container unit then how I am going to apply the architectural design principles to make a sustainable design with the help of a number of shipping containers that will be fitted together to create the project.
in this design, I studied the ability to use the nanotechnology applications in architecture to design a sustainable housing unit, this unit is eco-friendly and have a low rate of energy consumption with the help of good design and latest technologies in coatings and finishing materials that are able to keep the units healthy, clean and smart.
The design is influenced by both, as during my master's research that was about the influence of nanotechnology in raising the healthcare buildings' efficiency, I got inspired by an idea that why shouldn't I try to design a small unit to be a house for many of homeless and refugees in different countries and apply what I studied about nanotechnology to be a sustainable house that could stay for years and won't be that expensive and also consider the aesthetics in design.
I decided to submit this project after I read about the A'design award competition and how it's an influential platform that will give me the chance to bring my project to the light and spread my idea about this design.
I learned How to design small spaces well and how to achieve what the user will need with the smallest areas possible, also how to recycle and use products and transfer them into other useful and helpful projects.
No, Thank you
Grand Interview about The Square Housing Units
The concept of the geometric layout of the units is designed to form a hollow square configuration, with various sections intentionally removed to create openings that facilitate airflow throughout the entire project. This design not only enhances ventilation and natural light for residents in all areas but also ensures that air can access the courtyard from both the top and sides of the structure. Additionally, this geometric form is crucial in providing privacy for each unit, as it allows for individual private spaces free from external disturbances.
The use of nanotechnology coatings, such as self-cleaning glass and anti-bacterial surfaces, directly aligns with the goal of providing sustainable, low-maintenance housing for vulnerable populations by reducing both upkeep costs and environmental impact. For instance, self-cleaning glass coatings reduce the need for frequent washing by allowing rainwater to naturally clean the surfaces, which minimizes water consumption and reliance on cleaning agents. This feature is particularly beneficial in areas where water may be a limited resource and residents may lack easy access to cleaning services. Similarly, anti-bacterial surface coatings enhance the health and hygiene within these housing units by inhibiting bacterial growth on frequently touched surfaces. This reduces the spread of infections and lowers the need for harsh disinfectants, aligning with both sustainability and the well-being of residents. These low-maintenance innovations not only cut down on recurrent maintenance costs but also extend the lifespan of housing materials, resulting in longer-lasting structures that are more economically and environmentally sustainable.
The central courtyard in The Square Housing Units draws from the rich tradition of Islamic and Arab architecture, where courtyards historically serve as focal points for community interaction, privacy, and climate control. By integrating this cultural element, the courtyard becomes more than just an architectural feature, it fosters social cohesion, enhances safety, and supports communal resilience, especially important for vulnerable populations. This layout encourages social interactions, providing a familiar, inclusive environment where residents naturally meet, support one another, and build a sense of belonging. Such an arrangement addresses the isolation that vulnerable communities might face and instead nurtures a neighborhood atmosphere, which is critical for mental well-being and community resilience.
The Tetris game served as a significant source of inspiration for me, as its units and shapes interact in a harmonious and flexible manner, allowing for the formation of a diverse array of configurations. This concept highlights the immense potential for developing various architectural forms that can function both as individual units and as cohesive communities or neighborhoods. The project embodies the vision of future expansions, adhering to consistent design standards and a unified way of living.
The inspiration for the square primarily stemmed from the profound and often heartbreaking experiences of the homeless and war refugees. These individuals, who have faced unimaginable hardships, deserve a life characterized by dignity, safety, and respect. Their struggles and resilience served as the foundation for the square project, which seeks to create a space that not only acknowledges their plight but also actively works to improve their circumstances.This idea aims to strengthen connections among people from diverse backgrounds, encouraging dialogue and understanding between community members. By bringing together individuals from various walks of life, the square aspires to cultivate a stronger, more inclusive community that upholds humane living standards for all. It is a place where empathy and compassion can flourish, allowing people to share their stories, experiences, and resources.
The natural ventilation system in The Square Housing Units was carefully crafted to strike a balance between voids and solids, creating a highly functional, energy-efficient environment that enhances resident comfort. The arrangement of voids allows for cross-ventilation throughout the units. Air can flow through open spaces, entering from cooler areas and exiting from warmer ones. This consistent airflow cools interiors without relying on mechanical air conditioning, which reduces energy consumption and operational costs. The strategic placement of voids in relation to solid walls also minimizes direct sunlight exposure, reducing heat buildup in interiors and creating a more naturally comfortable indoor environment even during the hottest hours of the day.
This balance between privacy and community fosters an inclusive environment where residents can enjoy meaningful interactions with neighbors and a sense of shared identity, while still having the dignity of private, personal spaces for themselves and their families. The design of The Square Housing Units thus promotes a resilient, respectful community structure that empowers residents to feel connected without sacrificing their autonomy.
the use of shipping containers and innovative materials in The Square Housing Units provides a low-cost, durable, and flexible building approach that meets the affordability and sustainability needs of developing regions. These choices lower initial construction costs, reduce long-term maintenance and operating expenses, and ensure that the housing solution can be deployed efficiently and sustainably, ultimately improving accessibility to quality housing in these areas.
The Square Housing Units has the potential to grow into an adaptable, tech-enabled, community-centered housing model that can respond to future urban challenges. By combining resilience, sustainability, and social engagement, it could offer a scalable, long-term solution to urban housing issues, fostering sustainable growth in urban landscapes worldwide.
the central court and backyard spaces in The Square Housing Units are much more than just communal areas they are catalysts for daily connection, cultural expression, and collective empowerment. By fostering a space for interactions and shared activities, these areas encourage residents to build lasting relationships, transforming the housing complex into a close-knit, vibrant community that improves the quality of life for all.