MArch thesis student Cheryl Wan received an Honourable Mention for her entry in Re: THINK HOUSING, the City of Vancouver ideas competition. Entitled “Courtyard Housing: A Sustainable Community Model on Standard Private Lots in Vancouver,” Cheryl's work further develops her studio project from the fall 2011 option studio: ReThinking Building Dwelling, taught by Daniels Associate Professor David Lieberman. 

Cheryl's project seeks to establish strategies for alternative housing models and dense suburban block patterns that respond to Canadian climatic and site conditions. Her design employs the cultural traditions and spatial considerations of Lo Shu Square, referencing Feng Shui. It is also based on an understanding the choreographic sequence of spatial movements and intent in Chinese calligraphy. The evolving typology addresses contemporary compositional ambitions by using a three dimensional digital matrix as an extension of Sudoku.

"Courtyard Housing seeks to maximize the utility of both private and shared exterior spaces and connect with and play a positive role in the neighbourhood at large," reads the description of the project on the competition's website. "Designed around four primary outdoor spaces (internal courtyard, car-port/patio, rear-pool(cistern) and side passageway), the project provides a place for all ages. Modest in size and simple details, this proposal provides affordable housing that fosters a sense of community, wholeness and well-being for families."

For more information visit re:Think Housing's website here.