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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Vertical Community Hub

Author:
Cody Bailey
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Vertical Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this innovative structure redefines urban living by merging sustainable materials with a vibrant community hub that integrates residential and commercial spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building employs cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles form a unique façade that promotes fire resistance while adding visual texture.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes internal spatial flow and maximizes natural light throughout the structure.
04
Lush vertical gardens are integrated into the exterior, creating a living ecosystem that promotes biodiversity.
05
The project incorporates adaptable retail spaces designed to support local entrepreneurship and community engagement.
Roosevelt Gardens is an architectural project situated in the South Loop of Chicago, Illinois, cleverly designed to serve as a multifunctional hub that integrates residential, commercial, and communal spaces into a cohesive urban environment. This project represents a significant shift in urban living, prioritizing connectivity and community engagement within a vertical framework. It embodies a vision where architecture not only provides shelter but also fosters interactions and builds relationships among residents and visitors alike.

The fundamental concept behind Roosevelt Gardens is to create a living space that blurs the lines between private and public realms. By incorporating a diverse array of functions within one structure, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants while promoting socialization and economic vitality within the community. The inclusion of commercial areas alongside residential units speaks to a growing trend in urban living that emphasizes convenience and accessibility, allowing residents to fully engage with their surroundings.

Key components of the design include an expansive atrium at the heart of the building, which serves as a principal gathering place. This thoughtfully designed space is enriched with greenery, promoting a sense of well-being and inviting interactions among users. The atrium not only acts as an environmental buffer but also fosters a community spirit, encouraging residents to come together in a shared, vibrant space. Additionally, the project features adaptable retail spaces, enabling local businesses to thrive and reinforcing a community-oriented approach to urban development.

The architectural design is characterized by its use of timber as the primary construction material, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and innovative design practices. The timber framework supports the building’s structural integrity while also creating warm, inviting interiors. Large glass panels are strategically incorporated to maximize natural light, further connecting occupants to the outdoor environment. This thoughtful material selection not only enhances aesthetics but also emphasizes the importance of sustainability in modern architecture.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout Roosevelt Gardens, particularly in its biophilic elements that integrate nature within urban settings. The incorporation of green walls and landscaped terraces creates an ecosystem that evolves with the seasons, maintaining a connection to the natural world even within a dense urban context. This responsiveness to nature addresses psychological well-being and promotes a healthier lifestyle for residents, aligning with contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize the relationship between people and their environments.

The façade of Roosevelt Gardens is another noteworthy element, showcasing a visually engaging grid pattern that enhances the building's verticality. This geometric design not only adds to the overall aesthetic appeal but also promotes an organized public space where privacy and interaction coexist. The exterior's emphasis on incorporating plant life serves to soften the impact of the building on its urban surroundings, creating a seamless transition between the structure and the outdoor environment.

In summary, Roosevelt Gardens exemplifies a modern architectural approach that prioritizes connectivity, sustainability, and community engagement. This project not only reflects contemporary architectural trends but also stands as a model for future urban developments that seek to create meaningful spaces for inhabitants. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful design processes and functional arrangements employed in Roosevelt Gardens.
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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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