Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glulam Structures Creating Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Miles Henry
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glulam Structures Creating Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and glulam beams, the design creates an energy-efficient living environment that fosters community interaction in a sustainable urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A unique bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while promoting natural light penetration.
04
The integration of a community garden fosters resident interaction and environmental stewardship.
05
Rainwater collection systems are incorporated to support resource conservation in daily living.
The Gridshell House is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful response to the contemporary challenges of urban living while promoting sustainability and community engagement. As a residential structure designed to address the needs of diverse populations in densely populated areas, it showcases a unique approach to affordable housing. The project represents an evolving understanding of how architecture can not only provide shelter but also foster social interactions and environmental responsibility.

At its core, the Gridshell House serves the essential function of offering affordable living spaces without compromising quality or design. The architecture is characterized by its distinctive grid structure, utilizing a shell form that allows for efficient load distribution. This design not only maximizes the use of available space but also creates open, airy interiors that invite natural light and promote a sense of well-being among residents. The inclusion of various unit configurations caters to different family sizes and lifestyles, ensuring inclusivity within the community.

The ground level of the Gridshell House is dedicated to communal areas that facilitate social interactions and community services. Key features of this space include a community garden, designed to promote environmental stewardship and community involvement. The community garden encourages residents to engage with nature and each other, fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, a circulation tower provides efficient movement throughout the building, reinforcing connections among residents and encouraging collaborative living. Public service areas further integrate essential amenities into the living environment, making the project a model of modern urban design.

One of the standout elements of the Gridshell House is its commitment to sustainable design practices. The project implements innovative materials such as glued laminated timber beams, which offer both structural stability and aesthetic warmth while promoting the use of renewable resources. The façade features breathable double-skin technology, serving as both insulation and ventilation, which enhances energy efficiency and indoor air quality. Notably, photovoltaic canopies are integrated into the design, harnessing solar energy to support the building's operational needs. The incorporation of water cisterns for rainwater collection underscores a commitment to resource conservation and sustainable living practices.

The residential units within the Gridshell House are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for various configurations that accommodate a range of household sizes. Smaller units, approximately 30 square meters, are suitable for individuals or couples, while larger family units exceeding 120 square meters provide ample space and amenities for families. This variety ensures that the project can meet the diverse needs of its residents, fostering a sense of community through shared living experiences.

Vertical integration is another key design strategy employed in the Gridshell House. Multi-story living is maximized to take advantage of the urban context, where space is often at a premium. This principle results in lofted residential areas that serve multiple purposes, including informal gathering spots or additional living accommodations. The community mezzanine, positioned to enhance social interaction, provides elevated views of the surrounding environment and promotes engagement among residents.

Incorporating advanced building technologies further enhances the sustainability of the Gridshell House. The stack ventilation system efficiently utilizes natural airflow to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems and promoting energy savings. The design also features photovoltaic canopy funnels that effectively capture solar energy while providing shading for communal spaces, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

In essence, the Gridshell House provides a comprehensive solution to the challenges of urban living by prioritizing affordability, sustainability, and community engagement. Its architectural design reflects a careful consideration of materials, spaces, and social dynamics, creating a vibrant living environment for residents. Those interested in exploring the intricate details of this project are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and design elements to gain a deeper understanding of its innovative concept and execution. The Gridshell House stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to create meaningful and sustainable living spaces that foster social connections within urban communities.
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 16544 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