Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Urban Living Experience

Authors:
Kit von Dalwig, Philipp von Dalwig, Susana de Zarraga
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Urban Living Experience

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design redefines urban living by seamlessly blending sustainable materials with communal spaces to create a functional residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and low maintenance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency.
03
Features communal outdoor areas designed for social interaction among residents.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize vertical space and natural light.
05
Integrates flexible unit configurations to accommodate diverse living arrangements.
The "Expanded Living" architectural project is situated in Brooklyn, New York, and aims to address the pressing issue of affordable housing within urban environments. This design focuses on creating a community-oriented living space that balances private and communal areas, promoting social interaction among residents while optimizing the usage of available land. The project’s layout integrates various unit types to accommodate a diverse demographic, creating an environment conducive to intergenerational living.

Community-Centered Design Approach

At the core of this project is the principle of community living. The design incorporates communal spaces such as kitchens, dining areas, and recreational zones, allowing residents to engage with one another. The layout encourages collaboration through the use of shared outdoor areas, including patios and gardens, which serve as communal hubs for residents. This approach to space allocation ensures that individuals can enjoy privacy within their units while simultaneously benefiting from the relationships that emerge in communal settings. The project redefines the concept of urban living, emphasizing community cohesion alongside privacy and safety.

Sustainable Material Choices and Flexibility

This project distinguishes itself through its careful selection of materials and the flexibility of its layouts. The use of engineered timber, glass, concrete, and metal not only ensures structural integrity and durability but also reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability. The design prioritizes renewable materials, aligning with modern environmental standards. The adaptability of unit configurations allows for varying household sizes and lifestyles, making the building suitable for individuals, families, and seniors alike. This flexibility adds to the functional diversity of the project, allowing it to serve a breadth of needs within the community.

Functional and Aesthetic Integration

Architecturally, the project aims for an integration of functionality and aesthetics. The building’s façade utilizes large glass panels, enhancing natural light entry, while maintaining a visual connection with the outdoors. The open plan of the floor plates is designed to optimize airflow and light, thus creating a healthier living environment. Moreover, the communal corridors are positioned to foster interaction among residents, enhancing the overall sense of community within the building.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that form the foundation of this project, we invite readers to examine the detailed presentations available. This analysis presents just a glimpse into the complexity and intention behind the "Expanded Living" project, emphasizing its innovative approach to urban architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy