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Biophilic Spaces Enhanced by Vertical Gardens and Cross-Laminated Timber Integration

Authors:
Alexandru Scarlat, Andrei Victor Moldoveanu
Biophilic Spaces Enhanced by Vertical Gardens and Cross-Laminated Timber Integration

Project in-detail

Characterized by its integration of vertical gardens and the use of cross-laminated timber, the architectural design creates a versatile community hub that prioritizes sustainability and engagement within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Characterized by extensive vertical gardens that enhance air quality and biodiversity.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles that provide an aesthetic contrast and fire resistance.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and spatial dynamics.
05
Utilizes modular spaces that can be easily reconfigured for diverse community activities.

**Overview**

Located in Tokyo, Japan, the Tokyo Pop Lab is designed to address the complexities of urban life through a multifunctional space that promotes community engagement, creativity, and an eco-conscious lifestyle. The project integrates advanced architectural principles with the cultural and environmental context of its surroundings, aiming to accommodate a variety of activities, including workshops, social gatherings, and educational pursuits, all within a compact footprint in a bustling urban setting.

**Spatial Configuration and User Engagement**

The design emphasizes a hybrid structure that fluidly connects indoor and outdoor environments, thereby enriching the user experience. Expansive glass elements facilitate transparency and interaction with the surroundings, encouraging community participation and engagement. The interior layout is intentionally flexible, allowing spaces to be reconfigured to meet diverse user needs and varying visitor volumes. Public zones are prioritized, featuring large, open areas that foster congregation, while private workspaces are strategically designed to promote focus through sound barriers and thoughtful organization.

**Material Selection and Environmental Considerations**

The Tokyo Pop Lab employs a range of sustainable materials to achieve its design goals. Extensive use of glass in windows and roofing enhances natural lighting while minimizing reliance on artificial illumination. Complementary use of wood adds warmth and organic appeal, while concrete provides structural durability and contrast. Steel is utilized to support heavier loads where necessary. The inclusion of green roofs and vertical gardens not only enhances insulation but also promotes biodiversity, contributing to the reduction of the urban heat island effect and reinforcing the project's sustainability objectives.

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

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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

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