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Cross-Laminated Timber Framework Enhanced by Recycled Plastic Panels in Modular Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Simone Zanini, Luca Soldati, Andrea Lui, Carlo Andrea Vescovi
Cross-Laminated Timber Framework Enhanced by Recycled Plastic Panels in Modular Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and innovative recycled plastic panels, this modular living solution redefines urban housing by integrating sustainability with flexible space design for communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Wikkelhouse cardboard shells for rapid construction and reduced carbon footprint.
02
Integrates recycled plastic panels to enhance sustainability and minimize waste.
03
Features customizable modular units allowing for adaptable living configurations.
04
Incorporates communal garden spaces at varying levels to promote community interaction.
05
Employs a lightweight timber frame structure, maximizing efficiency in urban settings.
The Urban Drawerbox is an architectural design project focused on addressing housing shortages in metropolitan areas. This project employs a modular construction approach, utilizing prefabricated units integrated into a pre-constructed frame, which allows for efficient assembly and adaptability. The design features structural sustainability, aesthetic flexibility, and communal living spaces, showcasing a contemporary solution to urban residential challenges.

Modular Design Approach
One of the key aspects of the Urban Drawerbox is its modular design. The project consists of prefabricated housing units that can be added or reconfigured based on community needs. This flexibility enables the creation of various residential types while maintaining a cohesive architectural language. Each unit is produced using lightweight materials, such as timber and Wikkelhouse® cardboard shells, minimizing environmental impact and construction time. The design allows for varying heights and layouts, facilitating efficient use of space within urban settings.

Sustainable Material Selection
The Urban Drawerbox utilizes a variety of materials that emphasize sustainability and performance. Timber serves as the primary framework, offering a renewable resource option that reduces carbon emissions during construction. Wood-derived materials and OSB panels provide necessary insulation and structural integrity. Additionally, the integration of recycled plastic panels from KLP enhances the overall sustainability of the design, utilizing materials that otherwise would contribute to waste.

Community-Focused Spaces
The structure is not solely residential; it also incorporates communal areas that promote community engagement among residents. The design allows for open spaces at various levels, which can serve multiple functions, from social gatherings to communal gardens. This consideration of community interaction distinguishes the Urban Drawerbox from traditional housing projects, making it an urban habitat that encourages collaboration and connectivity.

In summary, the Urban Drawerbox represents an innovative approach to urban living, blending prefabrication with sustainable practices while prioritizing community interaction. For a comprehensive understanding of the project, explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that provide further insights into its unique approaches. Delve into the architectural ideas that underpin this project to appreciate its potential impact on urban housing solutions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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