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Cross-Laminated Timber and Fire-Resistant Elements Shaping Sustainable Community Housing

Authors:
Miguel Ortiz-teed, Andrew Abbey
Cross-Laminated Timber and Fire-Resistant Elements Shaping Sustainable Community Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and fire-resistant materials, the design creates adaptable community housing that addresses the urgent need for resilient living spaces in wildfire-prone areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes spatial efficiency and natural light.
04
Includes a community gathering area designed to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Employs a landscaping strategy that integrates fire-resistant vegetation to enhance safety.
The Ripple House is an architectural project designed in response to the increasing threat of forest fires, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. This project focuses on providing immediate housing solutions for families affected by such disasters. The design emphasizes modularity, sustainability, and community resilience. The Ripple House aims to integrate individual living spaces with communal areas, fostering a sense of community while addressing the functional needs of displaced families.

Modular Housing Design
One of the defining features of the Ripple House is its modular configuration. Each unit is designed as an independent module that can be easily transported and assembled on-site. This approach allows for flexibility in expansion and adapts to the specific needs of different communities. The layout encourages clustering of the units, promoting neighborhood interaction and a supportive community environment. Each unit can be individualized, allowing residents to personalize their spaces while still maintaining a cohesive architectural language.

Additionally, the project incorporates a community gathering area that serves as a central hub for social activities. This space is crucial for fostering interaction among residents and strengthening community ties. The landscaping surrounding the Ripple House is also thoughtfully designed to include fire-resistant vegetation, creating a buffer zone while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the development.

Sustainable Material Choices
The materials selected for the Ripple House underscore its commitment to sustainability and resilience. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is utilized for walls and flooring, offering a renewable alternative to conventional materials while ensuring structural durability. The project incorporates fire-resistant terracotta tiles for roofing, providing additional protection against fire hazards.

Solar panels are installed on rooftops to harness renewable energy, enabling energy self-sufficiency for residents. The use of fiber-reinforced scuppers ensures effective drainage, enhancing the building's resilience against potential water damage during harsh weather conditions. The landscaping is populated with low-maintenance succulent plants, which contribute to both fire resistance and ecological balance.

The Ripple House exemplifies a thoughtful architectural response to contemporary challenges. Its integration of modular design with sustainable practices creates a viable housing solution for communities affected by disasters. This project showcases innovative architectural ideas that prioritize safety, function, and community engagement.

To gain deeper insights into the Ripple House, including architectural plans, sections, and design specifics, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation.
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MICROHOME
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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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