From area to volume, experimental youth housing in Gottsunda

Abstract: The base for this project is the challenge of housing shortage. This is occurring all over Sweden and Uppsala is no exception. The Municipality of Uppsala is growing fast, and the district of Gottsunda is one of the neighborhoods with a major future plan of densification and development. These plans for Gottsunda are stated in the “Gottsunda Planning Program” made by the municipality, where they establish the districts’ current issues, answers and future initiatives.  Category housing is lacking in this part of Uppsala, such as youth and student housing. Only 40% of Uppsala's students have access to student housing according to the municipality's document "Housing for All" and this laid the foundation for my project. The goal was to create compact housing with qualities found in other small spaces like tiny houses and compact living, both being a big inspiration.  This has resulted in my project ”From area to volume” where the means of creating a small dwelling unit that has everything except for a bed already included is explored. It is an exploration in volume and maximizing qualities and well planned spaces at the same time as minimizing the area the dwelling needs. Wanting the tenants to have the opportunity of a community and access to physical and social activities as the document "Guidelines for student and researcher housing" written by Akademiska hus describes as important qualities for sustainable quality of life.  This being accomodated by large communal spaces such as study spaces, social rooms, mobility hall, balconies, gym, yard and more.