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Charred Wooden Shingles Complementing Modular Living Units in Urban Infill Design

Author:
Hieu Huynh
Charred Wooden Shingles Complementing Modular Living Units in Urban Infill Design

Project in-detail

Modular living units constructed with charred wooden shingles and sustainable materials offer a contemporary solution to urban infill housing needs while promoting community interaction in a densely populated environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units designed for flexibility can adapt to various urban lot shapes.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles aids in fire resistance and longevity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Communal spaces are strategically integrated to foster neighbor engagement.
05
Green roofs contribute to biodiversity and improve urban air quality.

## Project Overview

The Versatile Urban Infill is located in downtown Los Angeles, addressing the acute demand for affordable housing within an urban setting. The design is crafted to enhance community-oriented living while responding to the city’s existing infrastructure and density. The project emphasizes the need for adaptable housing solutions that meet contemporary urban challenges while promoting sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy and Modular Design

Central to the architectural approach is the implementation of a modular "pod system." This design enables the accommodation of two to three-bedroom units, cleverly balancing private living spaces with communal areas. The flexibility of the pod system allows for efficient use of narrow or irregularly shaped lots, supporting the goal of densification without compromising residents’ quality of life. Shared amenities, including playgrounds, gardens, and lounges, are integrated within the layout, promoting interaction among residents and fostering a sense of community.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials plays a significant role in achieving both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability. Wood is prominently featured in the façade, contributing warmth and texture while adhering to sustainable sourcing practices. Recycled metal offers structural robustness, while extensive use of glass maximizes natural light infiltration and visual connectivity with the outdoors. Concrete provides a durable foundation, allowing for creative architectural expressions. Additionally, a green roof system enhances biodiversity and assists in thermal regulation, further underscoring the project’s commitment to ecological responsibility.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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