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Cross-Laminated Timber Housing With Green Roofs Emerging From Urban Parking Lots

Author:
Timothy Owen
Cross-Laminated Timber Housing With Green Roofs Emerging From Urban Parking Lots

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and green roofs, this urban housing initiative transforms underused parking lots into sustainable living spaces designed for affordability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design optimizing natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates green roofs to support biodiversity and reduce heat island effects in urban areas.
05
Transforms existing parking lots, maximizing land use while addressing housing shortages.
Spot Transformation is a housing project situated in San Francisco, California, designed to address the critical issue of affordable housing in urban settings. This initiative converts underutilized parking lots into residential units, significantly maximizing land use and fulfilling the demand for increased housing density. The project integrates modular construction techniques with sustainable architectural practices, creating a viable solution for low-income residents while promoting community interaction.

Innovative Modular Construction

A defining aspect of the Spot Transformation project is its use of modular construction. By employing pre-fabricated units constructed off-site, the design allows for expedited assembly, reducing the overall construction timeline. This method enhances design flexibility, enabling variations in unit configurations to meet diverse living requirements. The incorporation of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) as a primary structural element reflects a commitment to sustainability by minimizing material waste and lowering the carbon footprint of the building. This focus on environmentally responsible architecture is further reinforced by the project’s integration of green roofs, which support local biodiversity and improve the overall urban environment.

Community-Centric Architectural Design

The architectural design of Spot Transformation prioritizes community engagement through carefully crafted communal spaces. Public areas integrated within and around the residential units create opportunities for social interaction and community gatherings. The design also incorporates ample greenery, enabling residents to enjoy outdoor spaces while contributing to urban ecology. This focus on enhancing the communal aspects of living encapsulates the project's core intention: fostering connections among residents in densely populated urban settings.

In conclusion, Spot Transformation combines innovative architectural design with practical solutions for urban housing. For readers interested in a deeper exploration of this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into its unique approach and the specifics of its implementation.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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