Dornob | Design Ideas Daily

Ultra-Narrow Apartments Fill Gaps Between Buildings

Posted: 31 Aug 2013 10:00 AM PDT

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Could the narrow slices of space between urban buildings be utilized as compact apartments? In an effort to make the most of existing structures in cities around the world, architects Mateusz Mastalksi and Ole Robin Storjohann envision infills consisting almost entirely of Fakro window technology, which could provide a lightweight glass framework for these small homes.

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‘Live Between Buildings’ aims to create a new way of living in the city, with a minimal footprint. Each loft might be just a few meters wide, but several stories in height, including a kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, swing, hammock and even an indoor garden. Ladders and stairs lead from one level to the next.

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It might seem like living in the crack between two buildings would be dark and depressing, but using windows for the facade takes advantage of every bit of natural light that can be accessed. Unusual shapes, like large X’s, let light even into the very interior of these micro apartments.

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The project contributes to ideas for denser, more sustainable cities of the future. Rather than tearing down existing buildings or continuing to take up every square inch of free space on the ground, it explores the many unused spaces that can easily be found if you look closely enough.