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Cross-Laminated Timber and Shipping Containers Redefining Urban Living in Toronto

Authors:
Chieh hsuan Ying, Chi lun Lee
Cross-Laminated Timber and Shipping Containers Redefining Urban Living in Toronto

Project in-detail

Utilizing a combination of cross-laminated timber and repurposed shipping containers, this residential development in Toronto offers a modular approach to housing that emphasizes sustainability and community connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design that combines shipping containers with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Incorporates shared communal spaces to foster community interaction among residents.
03
Features large windows and sliding doors to maximize natural light and ventilation within units.
04
Strategically located near public transit routes to promote sustainable urban mobility.
05
Employs eco-friendly materials to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the development.

The CLT Container Accommodation Project is a residential architectural endeavor located in Toronto, Canada. This project focuses on addressing the growing demand for affordable housing by implementing a modular design that uses shipping containers paired with Cross Laminated Timber (CLT). The approach not only provides efficient living spaces but also promotes sustainability within the urban environment. This initiative aims to enhance the community's quality of life while demonstrating innovative architectural solutions to contemporary housing challenges.

Modular Construction and Flexibility

A defining characteristic of the CLT Container Accommodation Project is its modular construction methodology. By repurposing shipping containers as the primary structural units, the project allows for a versatile arrangement of living spaces that can adapt to various family needs. The design features multiple unit types, including compact suites and larger two-bedroom apartments, ensuring that it meets a wide spectrum of housing demands. The integration of CLT in the structural framework contributes to both strength and aesthetic warmth, facilitating an inviting environment.

Sustainability and Innovative Materials

Sustainability is at the core of this project’s design philosophy. The use of Cross Laminated Timber significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional building materials like concrete and steel. CLT is known for its durability and thermal efficiency, which translates into lower energy consumption for heating and cooling within the units. Additionally, the design encourages natural light penetration through strategically placed windows and sliding doors, further reducing the reliance on artificial lighting.

Urban Integration and Community Focus

The project is strategically sited to enhance urban integration, positioned near public transit routes for easy accessibility. This fosters connections to the broader urban fabric of Toronto, promoting a lifestyle that encourages public transportation use. The architectural layout incorporates shared public corridors and semi-outdoor spaces, creating opportunities for residents to interact and build a sense of community. Roof terraces and communal areas are designed to facilitate social engagement among inhabitants, reinforcing the project’s commitment to social sustainability.

The CLT Container Accommodation Project represents a forward-thinking response to urban housing needs, blending practical design concepts with a dedication to sustainability and community interaction. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that shaped this project, detailed presentations are available for further insight.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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