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Central Courtyard Embracing Cross-Laminated Timber and Bamboo Shading in a Vertical Community Village

Author:
James Dyson
Central Courtyard Embracing Cross-Laminated Timber and Bamboo Shading in a Vertical Community Village

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a central courtyard enveloped by cross-laminated timber and bamboo shading, the design fosters communal living within a vertical framework, creating adaptable residential spaces that encourage social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employed cross-laminated timber to enhance structural efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.
02
Incorporated bamboo shading devices for passive solar control and natural ventilation.
03
Designed around a central courtyard to foster community interaction among residents.
04
Utilized charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
05
Flexible residential units can be interconnected to accommodate varying family sizes and needs.
The Cùnzhùang Tǎ project is an architectural design located in the Sha Tin district of Hong Kong, targeting the challenges of urban density with innovative housing solutions. This project embodies a modern interpretation of traditional Chinese walled villages, addressing communal living while promoting sustainability. The design seeks to enhance social interactions among residents, supporting a cohesive community structure in an increasingly crowded urban environment.

The primary function of the Cùnzhùang Tǎ is to offer adaptable living spaces through a vertical layout that combines private and communal areas. The design incorporates various modules linked around a central courtyard, serving as a focal point for community gatherings. This configuration promotes social engagement while allowing for personal privacy, addressing the needs of both individuals and families in a compact living space.

Unique Design Approaches

A key aspect of the Cùnzhùang Tǎ is its adaptation of traditional architectural forms into a contemporary high-rise structure. This approach serves to maintain cultural identity while implementing modern construction techniques. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is utilized significantly, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to standard materials while enhancing the visual warmth of the design. The use of CLT allows for modular construction, which supports flexibility in layout decisions.

The architectural strategies deployed also focus on optimizing natural light and ventilation. Large glass facades permit substantial daylight penetration and visual connectivity with the surrounding environment. These elements are complemented by bamboo shading devices, which prevent excessive solar heat gain while enabling airflow and privacy.

Integrated into the design are outdoor green terraces and communal gardens, facilitating a connection to nature within the urban landscape. This design not only serves aesthetic functions but also contributes to the residents’ well-being and ecological sustainability.

Community-Centric Design Elements

The incorporation of communal amenities is a standout feature of the Cùnzhùang Tǎ project. It includes shared kitchens, flexible meeting spaces, and dedicated areas for children's play, fostering social interactions among residents. By prioritizing collective spaces, the design supports a lively community atmosphere.

The architectural layout’s adaptability is critical to its function. Units can be interconnected, allowing for larger family spaces or protected privacy as required. This flexibility enables the building to respond to the dynamic needs of its residents, reflecting a modern understanding of family and community life.

The Cùnzhùang Tǎ represents a forward-thinking solution to the demand for urban housing. Its unique blend of cultural heritage and innovative design strategies offers a model for future developments in similar contexts. Readers interested in gaining further insights should explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this project for a comprehensive understanding of its design concepts and implementation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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