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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.

### Overview

The "Life of Cell" project is situated in proximity to Kharkiv, Ukraine, and is designed to address contemporary challenges in urban living and sustainability. The intent is to redefine residential landscapes through innovative modular systems while incorporating principles of environmental stewardship and community engagement. The design utilizes adaptive structures that align with current ecological concerns, emphasizing the potential of recycled materials and modularity in housing solutions.

### Modular Design and Community Engagement

The architectural approach employs cross-laminated timber (CLT) cells supported by reinforced concrete frameworks, allowing for customizable living units ranging from studios to four-bedroom apartments. A key aspect of the design is the integration of communal spaces that foster social interaction and a sense of belonging among residents. Public amenities include outdoor areas designed for recreation, gardens, and flexible spaces that can serve as emergency shelters or community gathering spots, enhancing both functionality and community cohesion.

### Sustainable Material Integration

The material selection emphasizes sustainability and practicality. CLT serves as both structural walls and ceilings, while reinforced concrete provides stability. Woodfiber insulation boards contribute to thermal and acoustic performance, and modular construction methodologies prioritize resource-efficient practices. The project incorporates heat pumps to optimize energy efficiency in its foundations, reflecting a commitment to responsible building practices. The careful selection and use of materials create resilient living environments while advancing ecological objectives.

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

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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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