NIMBY to NIMBY

"Not in my back yard!" to "Neat, it's a mid-rise building ya'll!"
Positive Density
*HOBOURABLE MENTION - URBANARIUM DECODING DENSITY COMPETITIONN* From NIMBY to NIMBY aims to change the often negative public perception of high-density developments in predominantly single-family neighbourhoods. Despite the growing need for more housing due to the escalating affordability crisis, resistance to such developments is still strong. This project hopes to shift their perspective so that they welcome the density, not resist it.
The Big Moves
In terms of form, the building's massing will respect neighbouring properties by stepping down to a comparable height of 3-4 stories and providing extra setback. This ensures that the building is imposing on the neighbours and mitigates concerns about overshadowing and overlook. The corner at the intersection will be built to the maximum height of 6 stories to ensure sufficient density while providing a vibrant focal point for the neighbourhood.
A Neighbourhood Hub
As for amenities, the project aims to be a neighbourhood hub, offering residents and neighbours a place to shop, socialize, and come together to engage in various activities without having to travel far. The inclusion of ground-floor retail spaces adds convenience and vitality to the area, while creating opportunities for local businesses to thrive. The large central courtyard offers a space for gathering, relaxation, and recreation, a hidden neighbourhood oasis.
Massive but Passive
The building is designed to maximize passive heating and cooling, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical units for comfort and lowering electricity demand. The majority of the building is oriented east-west, allowing for southern exposure. The massing is designed such that the southern building (the stacked townhouses) is only three stories high, ensuring ample sunlight in the courtyard and the six-story block to the north. Apart from the ground floor accessible units, all other units have at least two opposing exterior faces, allowing for cross ventilation and natural light from multiple angles. In addition to saving energy, these passive attributes contribute to a more comfortable and pleasant living space, regardless of size or location of the unit within the building.
Good For Everyone
Introducing mixed-use residential mid-rise buildings to predominantly single-family neighbourhoods offers numerous benefits, particularly in terms of enhancing walkability, density, and sustainability. By offering commercial and recreational amenities, such as shops, restaurants, and green spaces, these developments promote walkability by creating vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighbourhoods where residents can easily access daily necessities and leisure activities within a short stroll. The increased density resulting from mixed-use mid-rise buildings leads to a more efficient use of land and infrastructure, reducing urban sprawl and supporting public transportation and bicycle lane development. Incorporating sustainability features into these developments, such as energy-efficient building design, passive heating & cooling, and rooftop gardens, helps minimize environmental impact and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.