OSA Architects

We cordially invite you to the discussion round "The Housing Unit - Complex Architecture and Mix of Uses" tomorrow, Tuesday, 17 April, at 7 pm, as part of the exhibition FUTURE URBANITY by OSA Architekten at the Architekturgalerie München.

The innovative aspects of Le Corbusier's Wohnmaschine as well as the critical perspectives and the possibility of a contemporary adaptation will be discussed:

Prof. Frederik Künzel Munich University of Applied Sciences
Prof Valentin Bontjes van Beek Munich University of Applied Sciences
Fabian Ochs OSA Architects

Le Corbusier's vision of the "Housing Unit", the "L'Unité d'Habitation", not only characterised modern architecture, but also changed the concept of urban life. By advocating functionalism and standardisation and his idea of mass-produced, efficient housing units, Le Corbusier wanted to address the urgent housing needs of the rapidly urbanising population of the early 20th century. Open-plan layouts, modular design and the integration of green spaces are a forward-looking approach that contrasts with critical aspects such as the lack of social integration, human scale and cultural sensitivity.

What role does Le Corbusier's housing machine play in today's urban development? How can we apply or rethink the principles of the Housing Unit in the face of current challenges such as housing shortages and sustainable urban development? What lessons can we learn from past successes and failures to develop contemporary solutions for the design of our urban environments?

For the successful operation of these complex architectures, the location and the proportionally correctly balanced mix of uses are crucial. Sustainable development and integration of these special typologies can be achieved if they can grow organically with their immediate neighbourhood and become an integral part of it.

We look forward to exchanging ideas and perspectives with you and gaining new insights together.