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Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Incremental Development in Sustainable Housing Solutions

Authors:
Mukesh Vanjani, Luke Carter, Dain Mcclure-thomas
Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Incremental Development in Sustainable Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and a modular approach, this housing solution adapts to evolving needs while promoting community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes pre-fabricated cross-laminated timber panels for increased structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a modular design that allows for incremental expansion based on resident needs.
04
Includes community-oriented shared spaces to foster social interaction among inhabitants.
05
Employs sustainable practices throughout construction to minimize environmental impact.

## Project Overview

This design initiative addresses the need for affordable housing in Sydney, Australia, utilizing a modular and incremental building strategy. The focus is on flexibility to accommodate evolving living conditions, while promoting sustainable and economically feasible housing options for a diverse community. Situated in a vibrant neighborhood with convenient access to public transportation and local amenities, the selected site is strategically positioned near the central business district, enhancing resident mobility and facilitating community engagement.

## Framework and Structural Approach

The architectural framework is specifically designed to incorporate prefabricated modules and components. Built-in services, including plumbing, electrical systems, and water connections, are integrated within this framework, allowing for efficient connectivity to future enhancements. The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is central to the structure, providing both structural integrity and ecological advantages. This material selection not only supports sustainable practices but also contributes to optimized construction timelines through the use of pre-fabricated factory panels and effective insulation materials.

## Modular Configuration

The project outlines several housing configurations to accommodate various demographic needs. Studio apartments designed as single modules cater to individuals or couples, while one-bedroom homes composed of two modules serve small families or couples requiring additional space. Family homes, utilizing four to six modules, are designed for larger households and incorporate amenities that foster cohesive living environments. This modular setup allows for gradual expansions, emphasizing the adaptability essential to address the changing needs of occupants over time.

### Key Features

The design fosters incremental development, enabling occupants to modify their living spaces based on varying requirements without necessitating relocation. Additionally, community-oriented spaces such as gardens and shared areas are integral to the design, promoting social interaction among residents. Sustainable practices are highlighted through strategic material choices and construction methods aimed at minimizing environmental impact while enhancing energy efficiency. The model also encourages collaboration among stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive approach that aligns financial and emotional investments within a robust housing ecosystem.

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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
competition now

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