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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Focused Housing in Urban Landscape

Authors:
Peter Willett, Cindy Lin, Sarah Gan-brown, Jess yue Wang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Focused Housing in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this urban housing initiative redefines affordable living through its focus on community connectivity and sustainable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels, minimizing construction time and reducing environmental impact.
03
Adopts a bent A-frame design to optimize space and facilitate natural ventilation.
04
Integrates community hubs within mixed-use podiums to encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Includes extensive green roofs and vertical gardens to promote urban biodiversity and improve air quality.
The Paris Affordable Housing project in Champigny serves as a response to the pressing demand for economical housing solutions within urban environments. Designed with a focus on sustainability, community engagement, and adaptability, this architectural initiative prioritizes the integration of diverse habitation types while fostering social interaction among residents.

The project consists of a holistic layout, characterized by a series of interconnected superblocks and livable pods. Each section is thoughtfully organized to promote active transportation, including pedestrian pathways and bicycle lanes, thereby enhancing connectivity with existing transportation infrastructure. The overall design aims to create an integrated living experience that accommodates residents from various socio-economic backgrounds.

Innovative Spatial Configurations

The project stands out for its unique utilization of spatial configurations. Key features include:

- **Mixed-Use Podium Spaces**: The inclusion of mixed-use podiums supports commercial and recreational activities, encouraging social interaction among residents. These areas serve as vital community hubs, integrating essential services and amenities within easy reach of living spaces.

- **Diversity in Housing Typologies**: This project comprises various housing types such as Eco Blocks, Pods, Superblocks, and Megablocks. Each typology has been designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for adaptability based on evolving family structures and societal needs.

- **Green Infrastructure**: A significant aspect of architectural design is the integration of green elements, including roof gardens and vertical gardens. These features contribute to environmental sustainability while enhancing biodiversity within the urban fabric. The use of natural materials, like cross-laminated timber, reflects a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint associated with residential development.

Sustainable Material Usage

The choice of materials in the project underscores a commitment to sustainability and durability. Key materials include:

- **Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)**: This material is deployed for structural components, promoting efficient construction processes and improving energy performance.

- **Concrete**: Employed for its structural integrity and thermal mass benefits, concrete forms the backbone of many architectural elements.

- **Glass**: Utilized in the facades for enhanced natural lighting, glass treatments provide opportunities for operable elements that improve occupant comfort while maintaining privacy.

- **Vegetation**: Strategic landscaping contributes to both aesthetics and environmental benefits by improving air quality and promoting natural cooling.

The Paris Affordable Housing project is a forward-thinking architectural initiative that successfully combines strategic design with environmental considerations. Those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this project are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented to gain comprehensive insights into its innovative architectural ideas and practical implementation.
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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
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