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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Micro-Habitations in Urban Alleyways

Authors:
Ramy Bachar Mouslim, Marco Antonio Quiroz Bautista
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Micro-Habitations in Urban Alleyways

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this micro-habitation project transforms underused urban alleyways into functional living spaces that prioritize sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes spatial efficiency in compact settings.
04
Integrates communal green spaces to foster community interaction among residents.
05
Transforms urban alleyways into functional living environments, addressing housing shortages.
The Micro Casita project is an architectural initiative located in Montreal, Quebec. Designed as a response to the urban housing crisis, it focuses on constructing micro-habitations within underutilized alleyways. This project aims to create functional, affordable living spaces that address the challenges of high-density urban areas while promoting community engagement.

The Micro Casita serves multiple functions: it provides housing for individuals and families, encourages a sense of belonging through communal spaces, and promotes sustainable living practices. Its design emphasizes efficiency, maximizing limited space without compromising comfort or usability. Each micro-unit is equipped with essential amenities, ensuring occupants enjoy a high quality of life despite the smaller living area.

The architecture features a modular approach, allowing for flexibility in design and the potential for replication in various urban contexts. The use of wood as the primary structural material reflects sustainability principles and creates a warm aesthetic. Large windows and an open floor plan enhance natural light and airflow, contributing to a pleasant living environment.

Community spaces incorporated into the design encourage interaction among residents. Shared gardens and communal areas foster a sense of community; they provide opportunities for residents to engage with one another and organize events, further strengthening neighborhood ties.

Sustainability is a core focus of the Micro Casita project. Each unit is equipped with solar panels, promoting renewable energy usage, while rain gardens are integrated into the landscape to manage stormwater runoff. These eco-friendly design elements align with contemporary architectural practices aimed at reducing environmental impacts and enhancing urban resilience.

The Micro Casita project stands out due to its emphasis on utilizing overlooked spaces within the urban fabric. By reimagining alleyways as vital components of the living environment, it provides insights into developing housing solutions in congested cities. The design encourages a shift in mindset regarding urban living, highlighting the potential for vibrant, functional spaces in areas traditionally considered secondary.

In addition to the architectural design itself, examining the architectural plans, sections, and ideas offers a more comprehensive understanding of how this project addresses the complexities of modern urban living. Explore the project presentation for further details and insights into the innovative architecture of the Micro Casita.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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