Get inspired!

17,725 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 Panels Define Compact Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Jana Krüger
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Compact Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design offers a flexible, space-efficient living solution tailored for urban environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely from sustainably sourced materials, enhancing environmental responsibility.
02
Features a modular system allowing for easy reconfiguration and site adaptability.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and reduce weight.
05
Design allows for seamless integration of communal living spaces within compact units.

The MicroHomes project represents an efficient architectural response to the challenges of urban living. It focuses on creating adaptable, space-efficient housing solutions designed for modern urban environments. The project addresses the increasing demand for affordable housing while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and flexibility in design.

The architectural design includes compact living units that measure approximately 2.5 meters in length. Each unit is developed with a modular approach, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly. This flexibility is essential for urban settings, where living spaces can be quickly adapted to meet the changing needs of residents. The integration of communal areas fosters community engagement, allowing residents to interact and build relationships.

The core attributes of the MicroHomes project lie in its innovative use of materials and design methodologies. Utilizing timber as the primary construction material offers numerous benefits - it is renewable, lightweight, and conducive to a quicker construction process. Key components of the design include timber beams and bracing for structural stability, timber blocks for modular functionality, and cladding materials selected for both aesthetic and insulating properties. Such careful material selection enhances the overall project sustainability while promoting ease of maintenance.

Unique to this project is its kit-of-parts approach, which allows for customization based on site conditions and personal preferences. The individualized living units encompass essential amenities—such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area—all within a compact footprint. Additionally, the design incorporates versatile interior layouts, featuring moveable partitions that offer further customization. This capability differentiates the MicroHomes from traditional residential designs by prioritizing flexibility and local context in urban environments.

Understanding the dynamics of urban living is crucial for architecture today, and the MicroHomes project exemplifies sensitivity to these issues. The design outcomes reflect a balance between individual needs and communal living, ensuring a holistic approach to housing in densely populated areas.

For additional insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design concepts of the MicroHomes project, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and unique solutions embedded within this housing initiative.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

`

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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