ARCH 562 Collectives 31

The Way Home: Stairway to Livability

Fan Bai and Ying Wang
Sharon Haar
This collective project revives the tradition of staircases as communal spaces, countering the dominance of elevators. The project introduces three circulation systems: semi-outdoor corridors connecting the building, collective staircases fostering social interaction, and private unit stairs ensuring vertical connectivity. It features diverse living units, including dormitories, multi-level apartments, and single-bedroom homes, catering to various residents. The ground floor hosts commercial spaces and a private courtyard, enhancing urban engagement. Through shared amenities like collective kitchens and seating areas, the design creates a seamless transition from city life to home, encouraging interaction, gathering, and a sense of belonging.