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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Shaping Resilient Urban Living

Authors:
Jesse Pringle, Yara Gamal
Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Shaping Resilient Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this urban development redefines community living through sustainable design, providing adaptable residential spaces that cater to diverse needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for their aesthetic appeal and natural weather resistance.
03
A bent A-frame structure optimizes solar exposure, benefiting energy efficiency in colder months.
04
Flexible interior walls allow residents to customize their living spaces according to personal needs.
05
The project integrates abundant greenery on terraces to promote biodiversity and enhance livability.
The architectural project known as "Solar Havens of Toronto" embodies a thoughtful approach to residential design in an urban environment marked by a cold climate. This endeavor represents a significant shift towards sustainability in housing, integrating the efficient use of solar energy while fostering community engagement and flexibility within living spaces. Situated in Toronto, this design acknowledges the city's unique historical context while simultaneously addressing contemporary housing challenges faced by diverse demographic groups, including families, students, and senior citizens.

At its core, the project serves a dual function: it provides housing while also creating a mixed-use space that supports community services. The architectural layout is characterized by a series of units organized around a central podium, enhancing both accessibility and interaction among residents. This organization not only maximizes land use but also allows for the efficient capturing of sunlight, leveraging the building's orientation to mitigate the impact of harsh winter weather.

A standout feature of the project is its commitment to sustainability. It employs hybrid timber and steel construction, offering structural integrity combined with an inviting atmosphere. The use of high-performance windows further ensures that natural light floods the interiors while actively contributing to energy efficiency. These windows are strategically positioned to provide both warmth during the colder months and a connection to the outside world. The concrete podium provides a durable base, supporting the overall functionality of the design while integrating necessary public spaces.

The project’s innovative approach extends to its architectural design, with pitched roofs and steep gables resembling the region's traditional Victorian townhouses. This stylistic homage not only maintains a visual continuity with Toronto’s historical architecture but also serves practical purposes. The tilted roofs facilitate snow shedding and optimize solar energy capture, which is essential for sustaining energy-efficient operations year-round.

A notable aspect of the design is its flexibility. The residential units are conceptualized with movable interior walls, empowering residents to adapt their living spaces according to their personal needs. This adaptability caters to the dynamics of multi-generational living, allowing families to customize their environments. This unique approach not only addresses the individual needs of residents but also promotes a more inclusive community atmosphere.

Additionally, the incorporation of solar photovoltaic (PV) canopies accentuates the project's emphasis on renewable energy. These canopies harness solar power, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of the building. The integration of greenery on the terraces adds an ecological layer to the design, promoting biodiversity while enhancing the aesthetic appeal and livability of the space.

In summary, "Solar Havens of Toronto" is an architectural project that thoughtfully combines functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. Its innovative design approaches reflect a commitment not only to environmental responsibility but also to the diverse needs of its residents. The seamless blend of traditional elements with modern necessities provides a cohesive architectural identity that resonates within the urban landscape of Toronto. To gain deeper insights into this exemplary project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and the broader scope of architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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