Modular housing on the site of old subway stations is Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka and Bartlomiej Warmiak's answer to the housing crisis in Los Angeles. The work of the students from the School of Ecology and Management in Warsaw was shortlisted for the Los Angeles Affordable Housing Challenge. Read about their unusual idea.
The Los Angeles Affordable Housing Challange competition was a response to the growing housing crisis affecting various social groups in the metropolis. The rising cost of living, limited availability of affordable housing, and growing economic inequality are contributing to increased homelessness, and exacerbating existing social divisions. The goal of the competition was to find innovative and affordable housing solutions. Concepts were to be flexible, taking into account sustainability and adapting to the different needs of residents.
We wrote about the detailed guidelines and the composition of the jury in the article An Idea for Los Angeles' Housing Crisis, regarding a project by Warsaw University of Technology students Zuzanna Bućko and Alona Usychenko. The authors received the Third Prize.
The project team, from left: Julia Kubicka, Dominik Bartnik, Bartłomiej Warmiak
photo: authors' archives
Tubetown project
In addition to the awards and honorable mentions, the competition shortlist was also announced. On it were several projects from Poland, including Tubetown by Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka and Bartlomiej Warmiak from the Warsaw School of Ecology and Management. The authors focused on transforming disused subway tracks and tunnels into residential spaces, while preserving their original structure.
LA section included in the study
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
Our common history began in the SKP PNP design circle under the guidance of Mikołaj Michalak, who expands our horizons and supports us in every project. You can learn about the activities of our circle on the SKP PNP website. We like to take on architectural challenges and derive joy from it. The Bulidner competition was also such a challenge. Los Angeles with its high population density faces the challenge of providing affordable housing for its residents. Our concept is based on the use of abandoned train tunnels to minimize disruption to the urban landscape and maximize the potential of existing structures, the students say.
Tubetown project, sample locations
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
apartments in subway stations
Metro 417 became the design base. In the place of former subway stations, the authors introduced modular apartments, built from recycled containers and ecological materials. As the authors argue—the project not only offers a unique urban space, but also emphasizes the importance of historic infrastructure. Tubetown is also a public space, integrating residents with neighboring communities. Designed with different age groups in mind, it offers a variety of recreational zones, such as a skatepark or playground, common gathering places, benches and a community garden. These spaces are located in the subway tunnels connecting the various stations.
Students used the subway to create residential facilities
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
light through glass tunnels
Using a modular concept, the Tubetown apartments can be customized according to the needs and number of residents. The authors argue that by using glass tunnels, adequate access to natural light is ensured in each apartment.
A cross-section of the project and a projection of a repeating floor
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
A key element of the project is a ventilation system that provides fresh air in the apartments and public spaces. It uses mechanical equipment to bring in air, while used air is removed to the outside by natural circulation.
schematics, rainwater harvesting, solarization, ventilation
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
In pursuit of sustainability, the Tubetown project also uses renewable energy. A rainwater collection and storage system provides water for residents, and photovoltaic panels power the lighting of public spaces.
The Tubetown project was shortlisted for the competition
© Dominik Bartnik, Julia Kubicka, Bartłomiej Warmiak
