US architecture firm ISA has designed a tiny tower that is adaptable for small urban lots in any city to create diverse range of lifestyles. Situated in a small plot of Philadelphia, the slim six-storey building has been developed as an attainable housing for any potential use. 

Called Tiny Tower, the building is designed as critical approach in increasing the supply of attainable housing for a diverse range of lifestyles. Reaching approximately 116-square-metre area, each floor of the building is suited for different programs and flexible models that can be organized like a full-scale tiny skyscraper. 

Tiny Tower maximizes its modest footprint measured by 12 feet (3,6 metres) by 29 feet (8,8 metres) lot with a six level home. Although it measures only 38 feet (11,5 metres) in height, Tiny Tower acts like a full-scale skyscraper. 

The building is linked by a strong core of vertical circulation, each level is similar in size and quality, allowing for flexible programming. With a kitchen at the lower level and tucked away bathrooms on upper ones, each floor is free to define live, work and play in multiple configurations. A front justified folded plate metal stair provides a dramatic, light-filled circulation stack that affords surprising views inside and out.

"The biggest challenge in a vertical house with a tiny footprint is stair configuration. A folded plate metal stair with winder treads pushed up against the front facade of the building creates a dramatic, light-filled circulation stack that affords surprising views inside and out as well as a sense of adventure for the occupants," said ISA describing its project. 

"The experience of going up and down the stair is integral to the daily life of the building."

The architects stated that "urban dwellers are increasingly willing to trade quantity of space for quality. Living in a small unit in a vibrant, walkable neighborhood is more desirable than a larger home in a far-flung location."

For this project, Tiny Tower demonstrates how small in scale can feel large in amenity and experience.

All images © Sam Oberter

All drawings © ISA

> via ISA