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Cross-Laminated Timber Framework Enhancing Multifunctional Urban Spaces

Authors:
Martin RÖTIG, Hélène LE BRAS
Cross-Laminated Timber Framework Enhancing Multifunctional Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

Cross-laminated timber panels and biophilic design elements converge to create a multifunctional space that facilitates artistic collaboration and community engagement through a café, tattoo studios, workshops, and a guesthouse.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with modular flexibility to adapt to various functions and user needs.
02
Incorporates biophilic elements to enhance user well-being and connectivity to nature.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that creates unique spatial experiences.
05
Includes a green facade with integrated planters for improved environmental impact.

### Project Overview

Located in a dynamic urban context, the architectural design integrates multifunctional spaces that include a coffee shop, tattoo studios, workshops, galleries, and a guesthouse. The intent of this arrangement is to promote interaction among diverse user groups while addressing contemporary social and ecological challenges. By creating adaptable environments, the design responds effectively to evolving community needs and engages users through a shared architectural experience.

### Spatial Configuration

The spatial organization comprises multiple levels, each serving distinct functions that facilitate user interaction.

- **Ground Level** features a public gallery for art exhibitions, a café that acts as a social hub, and a reception area that ensures smooth navigation throughout the space.

- **Level 1** includes tattoo workshops and studios designed for collaboration among artists, in addition to a guesthouse that connects commercial and accommodation spaces within the structure.

- **Level 2** integrates educational functions, providing classrooms and exhibition areas that foster both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through workshops.

- **Level 3** offers a rooftop coffee shop and terrace, functioning as an observation deck and enriching the user experience by enhancing connections to the urban environment.

This vertical arrangement enhances interaction between levels, promoting a cohesive user experience across various activities.

### Material Selection

Material choices reflect both functionality and ecological sensitivity.

- The **steel frame** offers structural stability, while **translucent and opaque glass** elements allow for natural light influx while ensuring privacy.

- The use of **KLH wood** introduces warmth and a biophilic aspect, contrasting with the industrial qualities of steel, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

- **Textured concrete** serves as a durable grounding material that resonates with the urban landscape.

Additionally, the design incorporates modular elements, allowing for flexible reconfiguration of spaces to adapt to changing functions without necessitating new construction materials. This approach not only increases the site's adaptability but also supports sustainable practices.

The integration of green features, such as planters extending from the building's façade, highlights a commitment to biophilic design principles, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and user well-being through greater interaction with nature.

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

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Competition organisers

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
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