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Community residential development featuring cross-laminated timber and sustainable water management solutions

Authors:
Nick Husband, Matt Jones
Community residential development featuring cross-laminated timber and sustainable water management solutions

Project in-detail

This community residential development elegantly combines cross-laminated timber construction with vertical gardens and an advanced rainwater harvesting system, creating a harmonious living environment that enhances urban biodiversity and fosters social connections along London’s canal.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project features an innovative rainwater harvesting system that efficiently collects and repurposes rainwater for irrigation and other uses.
02
Vertical gardens integrated into the design enhance biodiversity and improve air quality while providing residents with access to green space.
03
Constructed primarily from cross-laminated timber panels, the building's structure minimizes carbon footprint and promotes sustainable forestry practices.
04
The canal-side location is utilized to create pedestrian pathways that encourage community interaction and connect residents to nature.
05
A flexible modular housing design allows for customizable living configurations, adapting to the needs of various family sizes and lifestyle preferences.
The architectural project "From Road to Community" serves as a thoughtful response to the evolving needs of urban environments, particularly in the context of London. It emphasizes the importance of transforming underused urban spaces into vibrant areas that foster community connections and sustainable living. The project aims to facilitate a harmonious relationship between natural elements and architectural design, highlighting the dual importance of functionality and aesthetics in modern urban life.

This project represents a significant step towards reimagining how urban spaces can not only serve as places to live but also as environments that promote social engagement and environmental stewardship. By integrating residential spaces with public interaction zones, it encourages an active and involved community life. This design reflects a shift in architectural thinking towards creating collaborative, eco-friendly neighborhoods that prioritize the well-being of their residents.

At the core of this architectural design lies the concept of modularity, allowing for flexible living arrangements that cater to diverse family structures and needs. The building's form consists of interlinked volumes that invite both privacy and openness, fostering a sense of community while respecting individual living requirements. Unique to this project is its emphasis on creating dynamic spaces that can adapt over time, accommodating changes in social structures and lifestyles.

The materiality of the project is another vital aspect that underscores its sustainable ethos. The use of sustainable timber frames provides both structural integrity and an aesthetic warmth, while recycled polyethylene facades enhance thermal insulation and reduce the overall environmental impact. The large glazed openings create an inviting atmosphere, ensuring that natural light permeates the interiors and establishes a visual continuity with the outdoors. In addition, timber laminate flooring adds comfort and aligns with the project’s commitment to using eco-friendly materials.

One notable design approach is the incorporation of vertical gardens. These not only serve an aesthetic function but also play a crucial role in promoting biodiversity and improving air quality in urban settings. Moreover, the implementation of a rainwater harvesting system exemplifies the project’s thoughtful integration with ecological systems, allowing for the efficient use of resources while supporting greenery on-site.

Community integration stands as a foundational element in this design, fostering an environment where public paths and communal areas are at the forefront. The project features commercial spaces reflecting local culture, enhancing community identity while providing necessary amenities. This focus on sociability and accessibility is evident in the layout, which promotes casual encounters and interactions among residents.

In terms of the internal living environment, the project prioritizes functional spaces conducive to family activities and personal pursuits. Open-plan kitchen and living areas promote a sense of togetherness, while designated spaces for gardening and leisure allow residents to engage with their surroundings on a personal level.

The surrounding landscape is designed to be both inviting and ecologically aware, incorporating native plant species that support local wildlife and seamlessly integrate with the existing urban fabric. This landscaping approach not only enhances the visual appeal but also emphasizes a sustainable approach to horticulture within the city.

Overall, "From Road to Community" represents a holistic vision for urban architecture, one that aligns human needs with environmental considerations. This project's thoughtful integration of community-centric design, sustainable materials, and adaptable spaces sets a strong example for future architectural endeavors. To gain deeper insights into this project, including its architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, we encourage readers to explore the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its design and impact.
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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
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