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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form Cohesive Modular Living in Urban Paris

Author:
Joanna Kowalska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form Cohesive Modular Living in Urban Paris

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this modular housing solution offers a sustainable approach to urban living while addressing Paris's pressing housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to achieve rapid assembly and sustainable living.
03
Features a flexible layout that allows for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
Integrates communal gardens to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Designed with an innovative bent A-frame structure that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
The architectural design project presented focuses on modular housing solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced in the urban context of Paris. As the city grapples with significant housing shortages, rising real estate costs, and a growing population, this project serves as a pragmatic response to these pressing issues. The central theme of this project is modularity, offering a flexible and adaptable approach to urban living.

Modular housing represents an innovative functional response to the spatial constraints of city life. By implementing prefabricated structures, the project emphasizes efficiency in construction and affordability in housing solutions while prioritizing high-quality living conditions. This approach allows for the quick scaling of housing units to meet the fluctuating demands of the urban population, particularly in a city where traditional construction methods can be limited by regulatory complexities and site constraints.

The design encompasses various unit types, catering to different household sizes and lifestyles. Options range from compact studio apartments that provide essential living space for individuals to larger, more spacious units suitable for families. These modular designs incorporate features such as open-plan layouts, multifunctional furniture, and outdoor terraces, which are essential in maximizing utility within limited spatial confines. This attention to detail ensures that each housing unit remains not only practical but also comfortable and inviting.

A critical aspect of the project is the thoughtful selection of materials and construction methods. The prefabricated elements used in the design not only streamline the building process but also reflect a commitment to sustainability. By utilizing eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, the project positions itself as a forward-thinking model in contemporary architecture. The emphasis on durable finishes and responsible resource use further underscores its aim to minimize environmental impact while providing cost-effective housing.

Unique design approaches are evident in the arrangement and connectivity of the modular units. The project promotes a sense of community by encouraging interaction among residents through shared spaces and communal gardens. This focus on social connectivity is vital in dense urban settings where isolation can often be prevalent. Additionally, the design incorporates thoughtful urban planning principles, ensuring easy access to public transportation and essential amenities, which enhances the overall livability of the neighborhood.

Architectural details such as rooftop gardens contribute to the project’s sustainability goals while also offering recreational spaces that improve residents' quality of life. These gardens not only serve as appealing green areas but also play a crucial role in enhancing urban biodiversity and mitigating the heat island effect commonly associated with dense urban environments.

The architectural plans and sections of the project reveal an integrated approach, demonstrating a consideration for both individual needs and broader community dynamics. The balance between private and public spaces reflects a keen understanding of contemporary residential expectations, placing emphasis on adaptable living solutions that can evolve alongside their inhabitants.

As one delves deeper into the architectural designs and ideas proposed in this project, it becomes clear that the focus on modularity and sustainable living is both a practical response to current housing challenges and a forward-looking perspective on urban development. The design details, from the modular configuration to the selection of materials, illustrate a conscientious effort to create a fine balance between functionality, community engagement, and ecological responsibility.

To gain a deeper insight into the comprehensive architectural plans, sections, and innovative design strategies employed in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation available. This project exemplifies the intersection of thoughtful architecture and practical housing solutions for the evolving landscape of urban living.
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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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