The preliminary scheme design was a continuation from key points identified in Research and Experimental phases. Based on research and surveys, kitchens and bathrooms are the two functions that users didn’t wanted more spaces than what was already provided. These two functions also houses the most complicated infrastructures within a residential building. Thus the design decision was made to standardised these two functions for each dwelling and arrange them in such a way that it would be closest to the core, and not hindering expansion of other functions outwards. These standardised components would be static.
The starting unit for each dwelling would be approximately 30sq.m. Based on users’ requirements, modules can be added as the exterior skin is pushed outwards.
After identifying the shortfalls of the first scheme design, a fundamental issue which needed resolving was simplifying the expansion mechanism. Taking inspirations from aluminium scaffolding systems, this design development attempts to create a hybrid structural system which allows lightweight structures to be “infused” with static structural elements of the residential tower.
The structural system will be divided into primary and secondary structures. Secondary structures are additional to the primary structures to enable incorporation of expanding structures. The expansion tubes will be inserted into the secondary structures combined to strengthen the add-on lightweight structures.
Users would first plan their expansion layout, and purchase expansion joints from authorised dealers or developer. When purchasing the joints and poles for expansion, the cost will also include the premium required for the additional floor space added. Users will then utilise the specially designed pivot joints pre-embedded in their unit to build the floorplate vertically. Upon completion, a specially design portable jack capable of pushing 3 tonnes of weight will be used to fold the expansion structure down, pushing the exterior skin outwards together with it, and thus expanding the floor area.
​
With a “manual” expansion mechanism, the floor plan of the tower can become generic, similar to existing floor plans of residential buildings. Based on previous research, again the starting unit will be a standard studio space with kitchen and bathroom approximately 28sq.m. Each floor would be individually wrap, thus the manufacturing of the skin would be more realistic.