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Charred Wood Cladding and Sustainable Concrete in Multi-Family Urban Housing

Authors:
Jamilla Afandi, Ashish Bhandari
Charred Wood Cladding and Sustainable Concrete in Multi-Family Urban Housing

Project in-detail

With charred wood cladding and expansive glass façades enhancing community interaction, this multi-family housing development offers a sustainable solution for urban living in San Francisco.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer efficient construction and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and spatial dynamics.
04
Interconnected communal gardens foster community engagement among residents.
05
Flexible unit configurations accommodate diverse family needs and lifestyles.
Triptych Housing is a multifamily residential project located in San Francisco, California, designed to meet the growing demand for affordable housing in urban areas. This project encompasses a series of interconnected living units that cater specifically to multi-generational families. The architectural design incorporates space efficiency while addressing the challenges associated with high-density living.

The architectural layout consists of small yet adaptable units arranged to maximize both privacy and interaction among residents. Shared communal areas, including gardens and lounges, contribute to a cohesive community experience. This arrangement facilitates both social interaction and individual privacy, addressing the diverse needs of families living in an urban environment.

Unique Design Approaches

A key feature of Triptych Housing is the emphasis on community integration through the use of shared spaces. The design includes thoughtfully placed communal gardens and shared corridors that promote connectivity amongst residents, offering opportunities for socialization and community engagement. These spaces are not only functional but also enhance the aesthetic value of the development.

The project employs a material palette that balances durability and warmth. Concrete forms the structural backbone, ensuring long-term stability, while wood accents in interior spaces provide a welcoming atmosphere. Large glass windows are featured prominently, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into living areas, creating bright and airy environments conducive to well-being.

Sustainability is another guiding principle in the project’s conception. Green elements such as rooftop gardens and energy-efficient systems are strategically integrated, promoting ecological responsibility. The implementation of green roofs contributes to thermal insulation and reduces energy consumption, aligning with modern standards of sustainable architecture.

Architectural designs reflect a careful consideration of context and functionality. Each unit is tailored to meet varied familial needs, allowing flexibility in layout and use. The vertical circulation incorporates staircases and elevators for accessibility, addressing the requirements of residents of varying ages and abilities.

In summary, Triptych Housing stands out in the realm of affordable housing projects due to its community-centric design, sustainable features, and thoughtful use of materials. Readers interested in the finer details of this architectural undertaking are encouraged to examine the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas behind this project to gain a comprehensive understanding of its design and functionality.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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