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 Wooden Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Carlo Broetz
Charred Wooden Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden cladding and cross-laminated timber, this urban development emphasizes sustainability while providing adaptable living spaces that foster community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes dowelled cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing both aesthetics and functional space.
04
Includes communal outdoor areas designed to foster resident interaction and community ties.
05
Integrates renewable energy systems with photovoltaic panels for reduced environmental impact.
The Wood Stack project represents an innovative approach to affordable housing, crafted to address current urban living challenges. This architectural design is characterized by a modular format that prioritizes cost efficiency, making it an applicable solution for cities with significant housing demands. By leveraging the benefits of sustainable materials and communal living, this project aims to enhance the resident experience while contributing positively to the surrounding environment.

The project consists of a series of stacked modular units that utilize dowelled cross-laminated timber (CLT) as the primary structural element. This choice not only supports rapid construction times but also significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint. The aesthetic appeal of the timber creates a welcoming atmosphere, while the design’s focus on communal spaces encourages interaction among residents. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with an open floor plan, maximizing usable space while ensuring adequate natural light and ventilation throughout.

Sustainability is a core tenet of the Wood Stack project. It incorporates several environmental features, such as photovoltaic panels and heat pumps, to ensure energy efficiency and promote a reduced reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The project’s integration of wood fiber insulation enhances thermal performance, contributing to comfortable living conditions year-round.

A unique aspect of this project is its adaptability. Modular construction allows for easy modifications and expansions based on community needs or individual preferences. This flexibility is coupled with communal outdoor areas that encourage social interaction and community building, setting it apart from traditional apartment complexes.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the overall design and function of the Wood Stack. The combination of CLT, parquet flooring, lava stone for energy efficiency, and gypsum board for fire resistance creates a balanced environment that addresses both aesthetic and practical concerns. This careful consideration of materials contributes to the project's sustainability goals and enhances the livability of the spaces.

The Wood Stack project is a notable example of how thoughtful architectural design can address pressing housing challenges while promoting community connectivity and sustainability. By adopting innovative design approaches, it redefines what affordable housing can be. For those interested in understanding more about the architectural principles behind this project, further exploration of architectural plans, sections, and designs is encouraged to gain comprehensive insights.
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