Bridging the Gap: 15 Atypical Living Solutions in Urban Remnants

Behind facades lie vibrant lives, where the exterior melds with the interior, transforming neglected urban spaces into captivating residences. In cities around the world, architects, engineers and designers face the challenge of integrating new buildings into existing urban landscapes with limited space. Many architects are now embracing this concept, expanding their designs beyond conventional boundaries and transforming small city lots into layered and interconnected living spaces.

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Researchers Ivan Turok and Gordon McGranahan have emphasized the need for a more comprehensive and holistic approach to studying urbanization and economic growth. This approach should consider not only the economic aspects but also the social, environmental, and dynamic dimensions of urban development. A familiar sight in many cities is the presence of neglected urban remnants - spaces that are often overlooked. Yet these abandoned allies and narrow lots hold great potential for the creation of significant living and garden environments that can enhance the quality of life for city dwellers and their surroundings.

Sustainable approaches, the use of local materials, and the incorporation of traditional design elements are the common threads among diverse projects. Building designs are planned to maximize available space and cater to both physical and psychological needs through various thresholds, spatial sequences, and innovative lighting solutions. To achieve a natural environment, these designs often incorporate small garden and plant spaces that extend vertically and connect different rooms.


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Courtesy of TAA Design

The transformation of urban remnants into vibrant living environments lies within architects' and engineers' hands. The fusion of exterior and interior living is not just a concept; it's a testament to our adaptability and creativity. Here are 15 examples of Unpredictable Houses from around the world.

Cần Thơ House / AD9 Architects

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© Hoang Le
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© Hoang Le

House in Nada / FujiwaraMuro Architects

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© Toshiyuki Yano
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© Toshiyuki Yano

Bagattenstraat House / NU architectuuratelier

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© Stijn Bollaert
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© Stijn Bollaert

303 House / Sawadeesign Studio

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© Quang Tran
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© Quang Tran

Nhà LỒNG HẺM Residence / AD+studio

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© Dung Huynh
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© Dung Huynh

Oché House / EovaStudio

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© Fernando Alda
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© Fernando Alda

HH House / Flat6 architects + aestudiooo

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© Trieu Chien
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© Trieu Chien

Sep’on Heartfulness Centre / 324PRAXIS

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© Duy Nhat, Le Ba Loc
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© Duy Nhat, Le Ba Loc

Ha House / VTN Architects

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© Hiroyuki Oki
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© Hiroyuki Oki

Empty box House / TAA DESIGN

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Courtesy of TAA Design
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Courtesy of TAA Design

Brecht & Nele House / Atelier Vens Vanbelle

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© Mr Frank
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© Mr Frank

TamHouse / A4 Architects

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© Vu Nguyen
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© Vu Nguyen

Folding House / X11 Design Studio

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© Hoang Le
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© Hoang Le

Small Brick House / Tung Nguyen Architects

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© Hoang Le
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© Hoang Le

Trau Quy House / TOOB STUDIO

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© Trieu Chien
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© Trieu Chien

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Cite: Hadir Al Koshta. "Bridging the Gap: 15 Atypical Living Solutions in Urban Remnants" 24 Oct 2023. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1007392/bridging-the-gap-15-atypical-living-solutions-in-urban-remnants> ISSN 0719-8884

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