The project imagines a compact and affordable urban living concept that adapts the universal module of a car by utilizing the dimensioning of a parking space. The concept explores affordability through structural clarity, simplicity and standardization as well as cheap rental plots in decreasingly car centered downtown areas.
Location universal
course Wood architecture studio (MA)
group work Esa Partanen, Yukiha Asano, Jonatan Winsth
Fall 2025
grade 5
1x2
The modular system is designed to make possible infinite multiplying of the three different identified configurations of roadside parking, perpendicular, parallel, and angled (45 degrees). This is achieved by 2,5-meter grid of posts to which the light volumetric modules can attach to. The corner joints between the post and engendered wood plates have an alternating rhythm that allows up to four modules to attach to a single corner post. Beyond the parking configurations the system allows for largely unlimited organic growth to all directions. The project includes a system of separate insulated façade panels that are attached after the structural system has been assembled.
The project explores further three examples of possible duplex configurations of units. In these the focus is on the spatial characteristics of small apartments. Staircases and entrance spaces are located to a specialized unit which also features a small balcony. This makes possible the clear separation of different spaces and transition between them making the compact apartments feel more spacious. In addition, the staircase unit breaks up the repetitive modular aesthetic of the load bearing structure.
Prototype of the structural system with CLT or LVL plates and 4X4 sawn posts. Volumetric units attach to two sides of the post at every corner. One post can connect to four volumetric units. Prototype design and model by Esa Partanen. Photo: Esa Partanen
Exhibition model. Photo: Yukiha Asano
Prototype plate connections. Photo: Esa Partanen
Prototype system. Photo: Esa Partanen
Exhibition model. Photo: Yukiha Asano
Sketch of the 3 chosen configurations
Project sketch book
Project gallery
