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Cross-Laminated Timber and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Centric Design

Authors:
Rafael Mourão, Carolina Leschot, Caio Caccaos
Cross-Laminated Timber and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Centric Design

Project in-detail

Employing cross-laminated timber and integrating vertical gardens, the design creates a sustainable community hub that fosters health, education, and social interaction within the Amazon rainforest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater harvesting integrated into the building's terraces for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates indigenous design influences, fostering cultural connection within the architecture.
03
Features a living façade with vertical gardens that support local biodiversity.
04
Employs a combination of cross-laminated timber and charred wood for structural and aesthetic integrity.
05
Designed with passive cooling strategies to minimize energy use and enhance indoor comfort.
The H'YNY'MA Tower is an architectural project located in the Amazon rainforest region of Brazil. This design blends contemporary architectural practices with traditional influences, aiming to create a structure that resonates with its ecological and cultural environment. The tower's purpose is multifaceted, serving as a community space, educational facility, and a hub for healthcare, all while emphasizing the importance of sustainability.

The design features a series of tiered levels, allowing for natural ventilation and lighting throughout the building. The architecture incorporates cross-laminated timber for structural elements, which reduces the carbon footprint and enhances the building’s environmental performance. The integration of vertical gardens and green roofs not only contributes to biodiversity but also promotes a connection with nature, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Unique Design Elements

A distinctive aspect of the H'YNY'MA Tower is its responsiveness to the local climate and ecology. The building's form mimics natural elements found in the rainforest, utilizing sloped surfaces that collect rainwater. This gathered water is directed to storage systems for reuse, effectively implementing a sustainable water management strategy. The use of transparent glazing across the façade provides views of the surrounding landscape while maximizing daylight within the interiors, creating a seamless relationship between the indoor and outdoor environments.

The project prioritizes communal engagement by designing lower levels for social interaction and health services, fostering a sense of community. Meanwhile, the upper floors are allocated for research and educational purposes, aiming to cultivate environmental awareness among residents and visitors. The architectural design thus serves not only practical functions but also reinforces the social and cultural fabric of the area.

Sustainability as a Core Principle

At its core, the H'YNY'MA Tower reflects a commitment to sustainable practices. From the choice of materials such as cement for durability to the strategic design that encourages passive cooling, every aspect of the architecture has been meticulously considered to minimize environmental impact. Green spaces integrated into the design promote biodiversity and mitigate urban heat, contributing to the overall ecological character of the project.

The building's unique architectural language, grounded in local culture and the natural environment, serves as a benchmark for future developments within sensitive ecological contexts. The H'YNY'MA Tower exemplifies how architecture can address current sustainability challenges while being adaptable to the cultural and environmental dynamics of its location.

For a more in-depth understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, visitors are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the H'YNY'MA Tower.
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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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