Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Reimagining Urban Spaces With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Engaging Community Areas

Authors:
Efklides Evan Tzimapitis, Sammriddha Shrestha
Reimagining Urban Spaces With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Engaging Community Areas

Project in-detail

Utilizing a distinct second-skin cladding of cross-laminated timber panels, the revitalization effort transforms prefabricated concrete structures into vibrant community hubs that promote interaction and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a second-skin cladding system using cross-laminated timber panels to enhance thermal performance.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for exterior finishes, promoting fire resistance while adding aesthetic character.
03
A bent A-frame structure is employed, allowing for innovative spatial configurations and increased natural light.
04
The project integrates communal spaces at ground levels to foster neighborhood interactions and economic activity.
05
Sustainability is prioritized through energy-efficient systems that support the overall function of revitalized living environments.

### Overview

"Rebuilding Ukraine: Second Skin, Second Life" focuses on revitalizing prefabricated concrete homes in Ukraine, offering solutions for structures that have deteriorated over time. The project aims to honor the historical significance of these homes while significantly improving their energy efficiency and functionality through the implementation of a second-skin cladding system. Central to this initiative is the promotion of community engagement and environmental sustainability, contributing to the creation of dynamic living spaces.

### Material Strategy and Structural Design

The project incorporates innovative materials to enhance both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the residential buildings. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels are proposed for the second skin, providing insulation and a modern finish, while steel columns offer necessary support for the new cladding. The inclusion of glass elements facilitates natural light penetration and visual transparency, promoting a stronger connection between indoor and outdoor areas.

The architectural plan includes critical components, such as the meticulous analysis of existing structures for potential revitalization, and the application of the second skin that symbolizes renewal. Additionally, the design emphasizes the incorporation of shared amenities and communal spaces that foster interactions among residents.

### Community-Centric Spaces

The project reimagines ground-floor spaces, transitioning them from solely residential use to multifunctional areas that support a vibrant community atmosphere. Cafés, retail outlets, and social facilities are integrated into the design, promoting economic activity and enhancing the overall livability of the neighborhood. By decentralizing community spaces and redesigning pedestrian pathways, the proposal aims to create a safer, more walkable environment that encourages social engagement.

In the realm of residential layouts, a focus on open floor plans supports both communal living and individual privacy, while commercial spaces are designed with flexibility to adapt to evolving community needs. The project also addresses safety through the revitalization of underutilized areas, ensuring a holistic approach that prioritizes health and well-being.

### Implementation Phases

The execution of this initiative is structured into four strategic phases:

1. Support: Strengthening existing buildings with steel and CLT reinforcements.
2. Rehabilitation: Internally retrofitting structures while maintaining their historical features.
3. Retrofitting: Upgrading utilities and systems to enhance energy efficiency and modernize living conditions.
4. Enclosure: Finalizing the design with a cohesive cladding system that improves comfort without compromising aesthetic integrity.

This phased approach not only facilitates a thorough and organized transformation but also aligns with the overarching goals of historical preservation and community enhancement.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy