Low-Cost Modular Housing for Gulfport’s Artist Community

In September 2024, Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated Gulfport, Florida, leaving many members of its vibrant artist community without homes or studios. Rising construction costs, labor shortages, and inflated material prices made traditional rebuilding slow and financially out of reach. Vertical Canvas proposes a sustainable, affordable alternative—using prefabricated modular construction to rapidly rehouse displaced artists while preserving the area’s creative spirit.
The design stacks compact living and work units vertically, echoing the density of urban neighborhoods while retaining the intimacy and character of Gulfport’s original streetscapes. This approach not only maximizes land use in a resource-constrained environment but also fosters interaction between residents through shared terraces, communal studios, and open-air circulation.
Energy efficiency and resilience are central to the concept. Smart home systems, including automated lighting, climate control, and security monitoring, enhance daily comfort while reducing operational costs. Sustainable technologies—such as rooftop rainwater collection, greywater recycling, and integrated solar heating—reduce reliance on municipal utilities and minimize environmental impact.
Beyond providing shelter, Vertical Canvas aims to revive Gulfport’s cultural heartbeat. By combining affordability, sustainability, and community-centered design, it offers a blueprint for post-disaster recovery that protects both livelihoods and the creative energy that defines the city.