Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Charred Wood Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevation Shaping Urban Integration

Authors:
Lauryn Rueter, Raymond Wysocki
Charred Wood Facade and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevation Shaping Urban Integration

Project in-detail

A charred wood facade complements cross-laminated timber construction in a high-rise that seamlessly integrates urban functionality with environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength and promote sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design facilitates natural ventilation and improves light distribution.
04
Generous canopies create shaded outdoor spaces that foster user interaction.
05
Proximity to Tinsley Park integrates natural elements into an urban setting.
"The Flare" is a mass timber tower located in downtown Houston, Texas. Designed with a focus on sustainability, it aims to integrate urban living with natural landscapes effectively. The project employs Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue-Laminated Timber (GLT), creating a structure that emphasizes both ecological responsibility and aesthetic value. The design prioritizes natural ventilation, daylighting, and flexible spaces, catering to the multifunctional needs of its occupants.

Sustainability Practices and Material Innovation

This project represents a significant advancement in sustainable architecture. The utilization of timber as the primary structural material highlights the shift from conventional materials like concrete and steel. The building’s design promotes energy efficiency and reduces its overall carbon footprint. Large glass facades blend functionality and beauty, allowing ample natural light to penetrate the interiors while maintaining a connection to the outdoor environment.

The building features a wave-like facade that enhances not only the visual aspects but also the building’s performance by improving airflow and reducing heat gain. The careful placement of canopies provides shaded areas, encouraging outdoor interactions and expanding usable spaces.

Interior Spaces and Functionality

Internally, "The Flare" is designed with a focus on user experience. The layout allows for both collaborative work environments and private spaces, reflecting the evolving needs of modern workplaces. The use of timber throughout the interior creates a warm atmosphere, promoting well-being among occupants. Additionally, the architectural plans include flexible spaces that can be adapted to various functions, enhancing the building's versatility.

Explore the project presentation for more details on the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that support "The Flare." Understanding the technical specifications and innovative approaches employed in this project can offer valuable insights into contemporary sustainable architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
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 17,249 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