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Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Vertical Community Hub

Authors:
Vanessa Randolph, Akhira Ismail
Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Vertical Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a modern vertical living environment that fosters community interaction in the heart of downtown Sacramento.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens integrated into the facade for improved air quality.
03
Features modular construction methods to optimize building efficiency.
04
Includes extensive glass elements to enhance natural lighting and views.
05
Promotes community interaction through shared outdoor spaces on various levels.
The Sacramento Timber Tower represents a contemporary approach to urban architecture, designed primarily to address housing demand in downtown Sacramento, California. This project integrates residential space within a vertical framework, promoting increased density while adhering to sustainable building practices. It serves as an exemplar of how architecture can respond to city needs without sacrificing quality of life or environmental responsibility.

Sustainable Material Choices

A defining feature of the Sacramento Timber Tower is its construction using mass timber. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability, considering the environmental benefits associated with timber as a renewable resource. The primary materials include cross-laminated timber (CLT) and laminated veneer lumber (LVL), which lend the structure stability and efficiency while significantly lowering the carbon footprint compared to traditional concrete and steel. Accompanied by a minimal steel framework, the mass timber enables an innovative design that emphasizes both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Integration of Natural Elements

The project takes a unique approach by incorporating greenery into its design. The vertical lattice structure supports climbing plants and integrates landscape elements that create communal outdoor spaces. These features enhance the building's ecological benefits while improving the quality of life for residents. Large glass panels throughout the facade facilitate natural light and provide expansive views of the urban landscape, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. This design reinforces a sense of connection to the surrounding environment, which is often lacking in urban residential buildings.

Adaptive Reuse and Community Focus

The design of the Sacramento Timber Tower prioritizes community and adaptive reuse strategies. This approach effectively utilizes available urban land, promoting a sense of belonging and interaction among residents. The tower features a variety of residential units designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for diverse living arrangements to cater to different demographics. This adaptability aims to cultivate a vibrant community atmosphere within a compact urban setting. The organization of circulation spaces, including open stairways and communal areas, encourages engagement and social interaction among inhabitants.

For further insights into the Sacramento Timber Tower, including details on architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of its design strategies and architectural intentions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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