There is a Hole in the Market

Project by:澳华 李, Mengyu Li, 志成 谭, Can Yang

Shortlisted entry of Nano Nest 2020

Urban Courtyard Architecture is gaining renewed relevance in the face of rapid urbanization, rising land costs, and the need for culturally grounded, environmentally responsible housing solutions. As cities grow denser, the pressure on space, social cohesion, and indoor environmental quality becomes more pronounced. This project "There is a hole in the market", located in the historic core of Luoyang, China, presents a thoughtful response through a courtyard housing prototype designed for six families spanning three generations.

Rooted in the spatial typology of the traditional Chinese quadrangle or "Siheyuan," the design offers a reinterpretation suited to contemporary urban life. The building utilizes reinforced concrete and glass to create a durable yet light-filled structure. An open staircase connects individual living units, and a central atrium channels daylight and ventilation through all levels of the home. These design strategies are not just aesthetic or functional—they serve to reduce energy consumption, support healthier indoor air quality, and create visual and social transparency within the household.

Each level of the residence is uniquely programmed to accommodate the lifestyle needs of different age groups. Elderly family members are prioritized with accessible private rooms that honor the Confucian tradition of filial piety. Meanwhile, communal areas such as the sunshine room, open-plan kitchen, and interconnected living spaces enable fluid interaction between generations, encouraging shared activities and emotional connection. Children benefit from safe play zones and natural light, while adults enjoy adaptable private and semi-private spaces.

A significant design move is the replacement of sprawling circulation corridors with a compact and centralized layout. This not only saves valuable square footage but also enhances visibility and communication between family members. Public space planning has been refined to promote a sense of togetherness, allowing family units to exist in proximity while maintaining privacy when needed.

The architectural narrative is underpinned by a strong human-centric philosophy. In a world increasingly fragmented by individualism and digital isolation, the project advocates for co-living models that are emotionally enriching and socially sustainable. It offers a low-rise, high-density solution that fosters community living without sacrificing comfort or identity.

The design also addresses climatic challenges by maximizing passive ventilation and daylighting strategies. The roof garden and glazed rear façade allow natural light to flood internal spaces, while strategic orientation ensures optimal thermal performance year-round. Ground-level voids further support air circulation, helping resolve issues of hygiene and indoor freshness.

In essence, this approach to urban courtyard housing is more than a residential prototype—it’s a blueprint for a resilient urban future where architecture becomes a vessel for shared living, cultural continuity, and environmental mindfulness.