Get inspired!

17,363 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Urban Living Through Sustainable Design

Authors:
Jonathan Espana, David Kim, Kyle Noronha, The Vu Nguyen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Urban Living Through Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive green roofs, this urban development integrates sustainable materials and adaptive design to create an inclusive residential community focused on accessibility and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and sustainability.
03
Features extensive green roofs to improve biodiversity and promote stormwater management.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates communal spaces that foster interaction and enhance community engagement.
Junction Rail Living is an architectural project located in the Junction neighborhood of Toronto, Canada. This development focuses on creating a community-oriented residential environment, utilizing the existing railway infrastructure to enhance urban living. The project aims to offer a variety of housing options that cater to diverse demographics while promoting accessible and sustainable living.

The architectural design represents a thoughtful integration of residential units with communal spaces, emphasizing interaction among residents. Junction Rail Living functions as both a housing solution and a catalyst for community engagement. Its design prioritizes pedestrian connectivity and environmental sustainability, aligning with contemporary urban planning principles.

Housing Variety and Spatial Organizational Strategies

Junction Rail Living features several types of housing units, including single units designed for individuals, couple units for smaller families, and family units that provide ample space for larger families. This variety ensures that different lifestyle needs are met within the same development. The spatial organization of the project promotes accessibility and interaction, with carefully planned pathways and communal areas. The incorporation of shared amenities encourages social engagement, allowing residents to connect and foster a sense of community.

Unique Design Approaches and Sustainability Measures

This project distinguishes itself through its strategic use of the surrounding railway infrastructure. By repurposing land near transit lines, Junction Rail Living minimizes urban sprawl and promotes the use of public transportation. The integration of green roof systems is another notable feature, enhancing sustainability by providing natural insulation and improving biodiversity. Communal gardens and outdoor gathering spaces are strategically placed to offer residents direct access to nature within the urban fabric, facilitating recreational activities and community gardening.

The materials used in the construction reflect a commitment to durability and aesthetic appeal. Brick, glass, steel, and wood are essential components of the project's material palette. Brick provides a timeless quality that connects the development to its historical context, while glass facades enhance the visual relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. The thoughtful selection of materials supports the overarching goals of sustainability and community integration.

Innovative architectural ideas are evident in the design of both the individual units and communal spaces. This project employs a variety of design strategies to facilitate flexibility, maximizing the functionality of spaces while ensuring comfort and livability. By focusing on these unique elements, Junction Rail Living delivers an architectural solution that is both relevant and responsive to the needs of its occupants.

Explore the project further to gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, and design elements. The detailed presentation offers an in-depth look at how Junction Rail Living successfully integrates modern architecture with community needs and environmental sustainability.
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 17,363 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