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Cross-Laminated Timber Design Integrated with Community Gardens for Sustainable Living

Author:
Joseph Robert Russell
Cross-Laminated Timber Design Integrated with Community Gardens for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber and rammed earth construction, the development harmonizes with its surroundings while facilitating sustainable living through community gardens and shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that promote fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates extensive green roofs to enhance insulation and biodiversity.
04
Employs modular construction techniques for efficient assembly and adaptability.
05
Design includes multifunctional communal spaces to encourage social interaction.
The project titled "Oakwood Mews" is an architectural initiative located in Enfield, UK, designed to address contemporary housing needs within the constraints of the Green Belt. This development seeks to balance the demand for residential spaces with environmental considerations, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community-oriented design. The project comprises a variety of housing types along with communal areas, promoting social interaction and engagement among residents.

The design efficiently integrates living spaces with green areas, underscoring the importance of nature in urban environments. It employs a thoughtful layout, where clusters of residential units encircle public gardens, facilitating both privacy and communal gathering. Such spatial organization enhances the liveability of the environment while respecting the existing landscape.

Unique Design Approaches to Community and Sustainability

A defining characteristic of the Oakwood Mews project is its approach to material selection. The design prioritizes the use of reclaimed wood, rammed earth, and low embodied carbon materials, significantly reducing the project's ecological footprint. These materials not only provide structural integrity but also aesthetically align with the natural surroundings, creating a seamless transition between built and natural environments.

The architectural design incorporates extensive glass facades in the community center. This choice enhances natural light penetration, contributing to more energy-efficient interiors while allowing residents to connect visually with the outdoor spaces. Additionally, the project emphasizes multifunctionality, enabling spaces to serve various purposes and adapt to changing community needs over time.

Integration of Nature and Innovation in Design Solutions

The project’s layout facilitates a harmonious integration of existing natural features such as waterways and trees. By preserving and incorporating these elements into the architectural design, Oakwood Mews not only enhances biodiversity but also enriches the resident experience through access to green spaces. The attention to landscape architecture is evident in the design of the public gardens, which are intended as central meeting spaces that foster community interactions.

Moreover, the design reflects an understanding of ecological impact, utilizing modular construction techniques that allow for efficient assembly and flexibility in future modifications. This innovative approach to construction underscores the project's commitment to long-term sustainability while responding to the dynamic needs of urban living.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design details of Oakwood Mews, readers are encouraged to review the complete project presentation. Delving into these architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the thought processes and intentions underpinning this comprehensive housing solution.
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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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