New York has the highest population density of all cities in the United States, and its population continues to grow. Small lots offer new opportunities for urban infill affordable housing; however, most are too small to accommodate conventional housing units, and site conditions vary. The “A+S+E Project” offers a formula for finding ways to squeeze homes into small spaces. This approach provides a typology for building pleasant, affordable houses with good aesthetic value. Small lots tend to be narrow but vary in depth. The “A+S+E PROJECT” is a simple way to customize small modular housing to the unique conditions of each site. “A,” “S” and “E” represent “Apartment,” “Stair,” and “Elevator,” respectively. Components are selected and constructed to meet NYC zoning code and site conditions. The basic apartment unit has around 550 net sf, including a small balcony. It is a spacious studio unit for a one- or two-family residence. Due to the narrow dimensions, the open studio type provides sufficient daylight and space for a pleasant lifestyle. In addition, I proposed only studio layout because the studio layout will increase building efficiency by using minimum vertical circulation. Since sites are small, duplex units are inevitable for two- or three-bedroom units, and those are required additional interior stairs. Apartment units will be stacked in compliance with the FAR of New York zoning code. When the number of floors has been decided, stairwells and elevators will be added.

Since the A+S+E Project is modular construction housing, it can be customized to the conditions of each site. It can be assembled in various ways like children’s construction blocks. Each apartment unit will be longer or shorter to fit the size of the lot. Additional windows will be added if the side wall faces the street. The height of the elevator shaft and staircase will be determined by the number of floors. The location of stairs and elevators will vary by site. All three components will be constructed out of conventional concrete with CMU walls. The facade will be clad in a brick veneer. Each component (apartment, stair, and elevator) is clad in brick of a different color. Since the building is constructed in a conventional manner, the construction cost is moderate.

Modular design and construction will be applied various site conditions; attached interior, attached corner, detached, shallow. Apartment units will be modified according to each site condition. Two studio units can be combined as duplex unit if it required. Facade facing to the street will have additional windows for view and daylight.