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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Integrated Living Spaces in Urban Environment

Author:
Arie Adriaan Heblij
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Integrated Living Spaces in Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this development seamlessly integrates private terraces and communal gardens to enhance urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainable sourcing.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes integrated communal gardens that promote biodiversity and urban ecology.
05
Employs passive solar principles for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The Vancouver Valley project represents a contemporary architectural endeavor situated in Vancouver, British Columbia. This residential development integrates community-oriented design with sustainable practices, addressing urban living's functional and environmental challenges. The architecture aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents by providing a holistic living experience with an emphasis on connectivity to nature.

The primary function of the Vancouver Valley project is to create a vibrant community space that fosters social interaction while promoting ecological sustainability. The design incorporates various housing typologies to accommodate diverse demographic needs, ensuring flexibility in living arrangements. The architectural layout emphasizes communal areas, enhancing interaction and engagement among residents.

Innovative Design Approaches

A defining aspect of the Vancouver Valley project is its thoughtful integration with the surrounding landscape. The building employs terraced structures that mirror the natural topography, allowing residents direct access to green spaces. These terraces are designed not only as private gardens but also as communal areas that support biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

The project utilizes a material palette that includes wood, concrete, glass, and steel. Wood is prominent throughout the design, offering warmth and a tactile connection to nature. Concrete serves as a robust structural element while contributing to long-term durability. Glass elements enhance transparency and natural light flow, creating open living spaces. Steel is strategically used for structural support, complementing the organic design approach.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

The Vancouver Valley project integrates renewable energy sources, emphasizing energy efficiency through passive solar design. Architectural elements are oriented to maximize sunlight and minimize energy consumption. Green roofs provide insulation and support stormwater management, demonstrating an innovative approach to urban sustainability.

Additionally, the architectural sections reveal how the design fosters privacy while maintaining a sense of community. Units are arranged to allow for both individual retreat and collective interaction, balancing the dual needs of urban living. This focus on adaptable spaces is critical in accommodating future societal shifts and changing lifestyles.

For a deeper understanding of the Vancouver Valley project, including architectural designs, sections, and plans, explore the detailed presentation that showcases the project's unique elements and overall vision. This analysis highlights the significant considerations that shape this architectural endeavor and its commitment to enhancing urban living through thoughtful design.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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