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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Vertical Living Units

Author:
David Leggett
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Vertical Living Units

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this residential development redefines urban housing by integrating sustainable materials with a vertical stacking design that promotes community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space efficiency.
04
Encourages communal living through strategically designed shared areas.
05
Integrates green roofs for effective stormwater management and insulation.
The Cross-Stack Housing project is an architectural endeavor that addresses the growing need for sustainable urban housing. This project is designed for high-density areas, maximizing vertical space to create modular living units that foster both individual privacy and communal interaction. The design embraces the core principles of efficiency and sustainability, employing advanced structural techniques and materials suited for an urban environment.

Innovative Material Usage

The structure primarily utilizes Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), which serves as the main framework due to its strength and lightweight properties. The hybrid use of steel columns and beams complements the CLT, providing additional structural support while allowing for expansive, open living spaces. This approach not only enhances the durability of the project but also minimizes the environmental impact typically associated with traditional construction methods. Furthermore, large glass panels are integrated to facilitate natural light, enhancing the aesthetic quality of the interiors and promoting well-being among residents. The ground floor is constructed from concrete, creating a solid foundation for the living spaces above and allowing for essential amenity spaces at street level.

Community-Centric Design

The design concept emphasizes the importance of community. The vertical stacking of housing units is an intentional strategy that not only saves land but encourages social interaction among residents. Communal areas, like gardens and meeting spaces, are positioned at the base, providing access to shared resources while promoting a sense of belonging. This consideration for resident experience integrates well with the urban fabric, facilitating easy access to public transport and city amenities.

The modular approach incorporated in the architecture allows for flexibility in living configurations, accommodating various household sizes and compositions. Each unit is designed with functionality in mind, featuring efficient layouts that maximize living space without compromising comfort. This adaptability is particularly significant in urban settings, where housing demands are continually evolving.

Sustainable Practices

Cross-Stack Housing embodies a commitment to sustainability through its architectural and structural choices. The use of CLT reduces the carbon footprint throughout the construction phase, and the implementation of green roofs enhances ecological balance. These features contribute to stormwater management and improve insulation, thereby reducing energy consumption. The integration of sustainable materials not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with modern architectural practices that prioritize energy efficiency.

To gain deeper insights into the technical specifics of the Cross-Stack Housing project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This investigation will highlight the detailed architectural designs that make the Cross-Stack Housing a notable contribution to contemporary urban housing solutions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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