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Cross-Laminated Timber Cells With Charred Wooden Shingles Enhancing Urban Living

Authors:
Anton Kuchták, Barbora Imrichová, Jorik Veselko
Cross-Laminated Timber Cells With Charred Wooden Shingles Enhancing Urban Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber cells form a versatile residential complex that adapts to urban needs while emphasizing sustainability through recycled materials and energy-efficient systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance in the building’s facade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while allowing for rapid assembly.
03
Flexible modular cells facilitate diverse living arrangements for residents.
04
Energy-efficient heat pump systems are integrated into the concrete foundation.
05
Repurposed construction materials minimize waste and support sustainability initiatives.

The "Life of Cell" architectural project presents an innovative approach to urban living, focusing on sustainability through modular design principles. Located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, this project embraces the necessity for affordable housing while prioritizing environmental responsibility. The design comprises modular units that serve as self-sufficient living spaces, constructed from cross-laminated timber (CLT) and reinforced concrete. This construction method facilitates scalability, allowing for versatile configurations that can cater to diverse family sizes and community needs.

The project emphasizes a full-cycle approach to building, utilizing recycled materials to minimize waste. The integration of energy-efficient systems, such as heat pumps embedded in the foundation, enhances the project's sustainability. The architecture showcases the potential for a resilient and adaptive built environment that can respond to ecological concerns while creating livable urban spaces.

Sustainable Modular Construction One of the key distinguishing features of the "Life of Cell" project is its modular construction framework. By employing pre-fabricated components, the design minimizes on-site waste and reduces the construction timeline. The structure's modular cells can be assembled and reconfigured as needed, allowing for flexibility in residential arrangements. This adaptability is crucial in meeting the evolving demands of urban living.

The project also incorporates communal areas designed to foster social interaction among residents. Public spaces, including gardens, playgrounds, and sports facilities, are strategically distributed throughout the development to enhance community engagement. This promotes a sense of belonging and supports diverse activities, strengthening social networks within the residential environment.

Innovative Use of Materials The attention to material selection further sets this project apart. The combination of CLT for the modular units and concrete for the foundational elements provides both aesthetic and structural benefits. Woodfiber insulation boards are utilized in the facade to optimize thermal and acoustic performance. Additionally, acoustic insulated truss connection systems not only enhance soundproofing but also contribute visually to the design ethos.

The incorporation of recycled concrete and wood debris in the construction process exemplifies the project's commitment to sustainability. By transforming construction waste into valuable building materials, the project aligns with ecological principles and demonstrates the feasibility of circular economy practices within architecture.

Overall, the "Life of Cell" project integrates innovative design approaches, sustainable practices, and community-oriented spaces. The results reflect a balanced relationship between built environments and the natural landscape, promoting livability and ecological responsibility. For further insights into the architectural design, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation for comprehensive details.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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