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Cross-Laminated Timber and Concrete Integration in Community-Centric Housing Solution

Authors:
Gabriela Santo Azzolini , Ana Carolina De Andrade Tenório , Gabriel Melo Zambroni , Luciana De Mello Miranda
Cross-Laminated Timber and Concrete Integration in Community-Centric Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and concrete, this housing solution incorporates verticality and communal spaces, addressing the needs of residents in Rio's favelas through sustainable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural efficiency and thermal performance.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes space and connects interior with outdoor areas.
04
Includes communal rooftop spaces designed for social interaction and sustainability practices.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support water efficiency in daily use.
Bossa House is an architectural project designed to address the housing challenges in the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It showcases an effective blend of community-oriented design and sustainability, targeting the specific needs of residents in these urban environments. The design optimizes a compact space of 24.9 square meters, prioritizing both functionality and social engagement through innovative space planning.

Community-Centric Design Approach

A primary aspect of Bossa House is its integration of communal and private spaces. The ground floor hosts social areas such as kitchens and living rooms, facilitating interaction among residents. A mezzanine level serves as a private bedroom while providing room for storage, optimizing vertical space without compromising livability. The architecture allows for external staircases connecting multiple units, promoting neighborly connections and shared experiences. The rooftop functions as a communal area, reinforcing social dynamics and encouraging outdoor activities.

Sustainable Materials and Techniques

Bossa House employs a variety of sustainable materials and building techniques. The use of concrete panels provides structural integrity and durability, while Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) enhances thermal performance and reduces the overall weight of the structure. Mashrabiya panels serve dual purposes, offering aesthetic value and managing airflow for natural cooling. Sandwich trapezoidal insulation panels improve energy efficiency, enabling minimized heat gain from the exterior.

Additionally, Bossa House integrates renewable energy solutions through solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. These features contribute to the project’s sustainability goals, making it a model for eco-friendly housing in urban settings.

Adaptation to Local Climate and Terrain

Designed to navigate the hilly topography of Rio de Janeiro, Bossa House employs strategies that leverage natural elements for environmental adaptation. Cross-ventilation is a critical feature, with operable windows and strategic openings enhancing airflow throughout the living spaces. This approach aligns with the climatic conditions typical of the region, ensuring comfort without excessive reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Bossa House represents an architectural response that respects the cultural and environmental context of the favelas. Its design encapsulates the essence of community living while addressing practical concerns related to urban housing. For those interested in a detailed exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that guide this project, further investigation into the specific elements of Bossa House is encouraged. Explore the architectural ideas that have made this project a model for future housing solutions.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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