A fine example of thoughtful shared space design, the NOIE cooperative in Nakano, Tokyo, brings together 11 units in a contemporary, characterful block. Exploring the relationship between "collectivity and individuality," YUUA Architects balance private and communal living. Possibly a little too 'student dorms' for most, residents share a number of spaces including an impressive rooftop, with stairs and multiple levels connecting each open apartment. While getting to know the neighbors is unavoidable rather than optional, the scheme does encourage individuality. Each home following a unique layout, the tetris like building appears as a series of differing, stacked boxes - your generic, modern housing block this is not.