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Charred Wooden Facades and Cross-Laminated Timber Unite in Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Craig Griffen
Charred Wooden Facades and Cross-Laminated Timber Unite in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden facades and cross-laminated timber, this architectural design transforms vacant urban lots into vibrant, sustainable communities focused on affordable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes innovative cross-laminated timber construction for enhanced sustainability and structural integrity.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and optimize space efficiency.
04
Includes vertical gardens and green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Designed with modular layouts that allow for adaptability to different community needs and demographics.
The Trinity Towers project emerges as a thoughtful architectural response to the pressing challenge of affordable housing in Philadelphia's Lower North District. This innovative endeavor is not merely a collection of residential units; it represents a forward-looking solution that harmonizes community needs with sustainable urban design. Intent on addressing the significant vacancy rates and housing affordability issues faced by the city, Trinity Towers blends multiple typologies to create a cohesive living environment that resonates with local culture while fostering interactions among residents.

Functionally, Trinity Towers is designed to accommodate a diverse population seeking affordable housing options without sacrificing quality or style. The architectural layout promotes a community-centered lifestyle, featuring strategically designed communal spaces alongside private living areas. These communal spaces are vital, as they encourage social interactions, creating a supportive atmosphere where residents can form connections and share resources. The overall design is informed by principles of modular construction, focusing on efficiency and flexibility. The individual units are aligned to maximize natural light, ensuring that living spaces remain bright and inviting. Each unit includes outdoor balconies, promoting a connection to nature while offering residents personal outdoor spaces for relaxation.

The uniqueness of Trinity Towers is evident in its commitment to sustainable practices. The primary material used is Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), which not only reduces the building's carbon footprint but also reflects a shift toward environmentally responsible construction methods. By embracing CLT, the project showcases the potential for wood as a renewable resource in modern architecture, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits. The exterior finishes merge natural elements with contemporary design, solidifying the project’s identity within the urban milieu while maintaining resilience against environmental factors.

Adopting passive design strategies enhances the project's overall sustainability. The orientation and placement of the building are meticulously planned to harness solar energy, significantly reducing energy consumption associated with heating and cooling. Furthermore, the design promotes natural ventilation through carefully positioned windows that facilitate cross-ventilation, ensuring a consistent flow of fresh air throughout the units. The inclusion of green roofs and vertical gardens not only provides insulation but also supports urban biodiversity, contributing positively to the local ecosystem.

The thoughtful integration of solar panels on rooftops exemplifies the project’s commitment to renewable energy use. This contemporary approach empowers residents to harness solar power for everyday needs, reinforcing the initiative's sustainability ethos. Additionally, efficient storage solutions throughout the design address the challenge of limited space, making it easier for residents to organize their lives without feeling confined.

Trinity Towers also innovatively re-purposes urban space. By transforming vacant lots into vibrant communities, the project plays a vital role in revitalizing the urban landscape and enhancing city life. It distinguishes itself through a design that not only prioritizes individual dwelling units but also emphasizes the importance of community through shared spaces. This approach facilitates a supportive living environment that humanizes urban settings often characterized by isolation.

In summary, Trinity Towers stands as an example of thoughtful architecture that meets the critical demand for affordable housing while promoting community interaction and environmental sustainability. Its focus on modular construction, careful material selection, and passive design principles reflects a deep understanding of the contemporary urban context. For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, from the architectural plans to the design sections, an in-depth look into Trinity Towers will offer valuable insights into how this project effectively addresses housing affordability and urban living challenges.
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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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