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Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Near Transit Station

Author:
Michael Raila
Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Near Transit Station

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this development near Balboa Park Station integrates modular housing with green roofs and commercial spaces to address the need for affordable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for flexible configurations to accommodate varied household sizes.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency while promoting sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer both fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Green roofs provide residents with accessible natural spaces and improved insulation.
05
Located adjacent to Balboa Park Station, promoting transit-oriented living.
The project “The Stop-Over” presents a well-considered response to the housing crisis in San Francisco by achieving an effective balance between affordability and innovative design. Situated near Balboa Park Station, this architectural endeavor aims to provide sustainable living conditions while integrating communal and commercial spaces. The project is structured to facilitate multifunctional use, enhancing urban life and encouraging social interaction among residents and visitors.

Modular housing units form the core of this development, designed to be flexible and adaptable to varying family sizes. This modularity allows for the reconfiguration of spaces—accommodating individual households or larger family units as needed. This adaptability is vital in addressing the fluctuating demands for urban housing. Utilizing cross-laminated timber as the primary structural material not only improves energy efficiency but also showcases a commitment to sustainability, reducing the overall environmental impact of the building.

The design incorporates a blend of public and private spaces, with commercial units located at the ground level. This strategy not only supports local business but also creates a vibrant environment that encourages pedestrian activity and community engagement. The inclusion of green roofs and landscaped areas contributes to the overall ecological health of the site. These features are designed to provide accessible green spaces for residents while offering benefits such as improved insulation and biodiversity promotion.

The project distinguishes itself from standard housing developments through its focus on community integration and ecological responsibility. The modular units and commercial components represent a unique approach to urban living, emphasizing a communal lifestyle where residents can connect easily. The strategic location near public transit facilitates reduced reliance on personal vehicles, aligning with contemporary urban sustainability practices.

Innovative design strategies enhance the project’s functionality while emphasizing aesthetic coherence. The architectural choices prioritize natural lighting and ventilation, which, combined with the wooden facade panels, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Descriptive insulation materials utilized throughout further support energy efficiency, aligning with modern environmental considerations in architectural design.

For a comprehensive understanding of “The Stop-Over,” readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs. Detailed insights into the innovative features and planning strategies can be found in the complete project presentation, showcasing how these elements converge to fulfill contemporary housing needs.
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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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