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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Transforming Urban Parking Into Affordable Housing

Author:
Timothy Owen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Transforming Urban Parking Into Affordable Housing

Project in-detail

With a façade clad in charred wooden shingles and structural elements crafted from cross-laminated timber, the transformation of an urban parking lot into low-income housing redefines community living while prioritizing sustainability in design.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance while offering a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for rapid construction, reducing overall building time.
03
Design includes community spaces to foster interaction among residents, promoting a sense of belonging.
04
The urban infill project transforms underused parking lots into vibrant residential spaces.
05
Sustainable features like green roofs help manage stormwater and improve local biodiversity.
The Spot Transformation project stands as a thoughtful architectural endeavor that reimagines the potential of underutilized urban spaces, specifically parking lots, within the vibrant city of San Francisco. Reflecting the increasingly urgent need for affordable housing, this project exemplifies a design-forward approach to addressing complex urban challenges. It not only serves a functional purpose by providing much-needed residential units but also represents an innovative response to city planning and sustainability.

At its core, the project embodies the principles of adaptive reuse while emphasizing sustainability and community integration. The design seeks to maximize the use of existing infrastructure, transforming monotonous parking areas into lively residential environments. By reconfiguring these spaces, the Spot Transformation project not only enhances the architectural landscape but also contributes to the urban environment’s overall vitality, encouraging more sustainable living practices.

One of the most notable aspects of this project is its modular design. Utilizing cross-laminated timber for structural elements reflects a commitment to durability and rapid construction, characteristics that suit the demands of urban development. The incorporation of brick and steel in the façade enhances the visual appeal and ensures longevity, appealing to contemporary aesthetic sensibilities. Green roof systems are another critical component, offering ecological benefits such as enhancing biodiversity, improving insulation, and managing stormwater effectively. This attention to environmentally responsible material selection lends credibility to the project’s sustainability objectives, highlighting architecture's role in combating climate change.

The architectural details within the Spot Transformation project further underscore its thoughtful design approach. The residential units are designed with flexibility in mind, enabling customization to cater to diverse household sizes and needs. This adaptability is vital in urban environments where demographics are constantly evolving and space is at a premium. The project plans to deliver a significant number of housing units, thereby addressing the city's acute need for affordable living options.

Furthermore, the design thoughtfully integrates communal spaces into the layout, fostering a sense of community among residents. Such spaces encourage interactions and contribute to social cohesion, traits that are paramount in urban living. By positioning communal areas thoughtfully throughout the project, the design promotes accessibility and connection, ultimately enriching the lives of those who call this development home.

What sets the Spot Transformation project apart is its ability to create a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, demonstrating how thoughtful architecture can address pressing social issues while enhancing the urban landscape. The architectural vision is not just about building houses; it’s about rethinking spaces within the city and how they can better serve the public good. By taking an innovative stance on urban housing, the project encourages the discussion of future architectural developments that prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and adaptability.

The implications of this project stretch beyond mere housing; they pave the way for a reevaluation of how urban spaces can be utilized creatively for community benefit. The thoughtful integration of sustainable practices and community-oriented design lays a foundation for future architectural ideas that can reshuffle traditional urban paradigms.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this project, its architectural plans, sections, and design details offer a wealth of insights. Delving into these elements will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the innovative approaches employed in the Spot Transformation project and how they may influence the future landscape of urban architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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