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Cross-Laminated Timber Frames Enhanced by Charred Shingles for Multifunctional Urban Living

Author:
Wojciech Zientek
Cross-Laminated Timber Frames Enhanced by Charred Shingles for Multifunctional Urban Living
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, this multifamily development integrates flexible living spaces with sustainable design principles to address urban housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes vertical space and natural light.
04
Includes communal areas designed for co-gardening and social interaction among residents.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to promote ecological resource management.

## Overview

Located near the Sydney Fish Market, ParkUPARTMENTS focuses on addressing the challenges of housing affordability in urban environments characterized by high land costs. The design strives to create a sustainable living space that maximizes the use of available land while integrating urban amenities and green areas. By prioritizing affordability through strategic planning and efficient construction methods, this initiative aims to provide diverse housing solutions suitable for a range of demographics.

## Spatial Configuration and Flexibility

The architectural strategy employs a flexible building system that encourages adaptability and user-oriented spatial arrangements. The absence of load-bearing walls allows for a variety of apartment configurations, enabling residents to reconfigure their living spaces as needed. This system is complemented by communal areas designed to foster interaction among tenants, striking a balance between personal privacy and community engagement. The project incorporates multiple unit types, including nano units for singles, micro apartments for couples, and accessible spaces for individuals with disabilities, thus catering to varied lifestyles and income levels.

### Material Choice and Environmental Impact

ParkUPARTMENTS utilizes a selection of materials focused on sustainability and energy efficiency. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is employed for its structural strength and thermal performance, significantly reducing the carbon footprint during both construction and the building's operational life. Steel and concrete are used to provide necessary durability and structural support. The design incorporates environmental features such as green roofs and rainwater collection systems, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals and promoting responsible resource management.

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MICROHOME 2026
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The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
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100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

`
Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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