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Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Reinforced Concrete in Urban High-Rise

Author:
Csaba Babud
Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Reinforced Concrete in Urban High-Rise
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The integration of cross-laminated timber and reinforced concrete creates a flexible high-rise in New York City, designed to adapt office spaces into residential units while addressing urban sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Use of cross-laminated timber enhances construction speed and reduces carbon emissions.
02
Reinforced concrete provides structural stability at significant heights.
03
Design allows for flexible conversion between office and residential uses.
04
Incorporation of mixed-use facilities promotes community interaction.
05
Strategic location in New York aligns with urban sustainability goals.

The proposal for a hybrid mass timber skyscraper takes place in New York City, known for its skyline and rich architectural history. This design blends reinforced concrete with mass timber to create a structure that addresses modern urban needs. It aims to serve both residential and commercial functions, reflecting the current trends in how people live and work.

Structural Framework

The building relies on reinforced concrete as the primary load-bearing material, providing essential stability and safety. This choice is significant for ensuring that high-rise buildings can withstand various stresses while maximizing interior space. The concrete foundation supports the overall height, allowing for expansive views of the urban environment.

Adaptable Spaces

A key aspect of the design is the flexibility of its spaces. The upper floors, originally planned for office use, can be converted into residential units. This adaptability meets the growing demand for varied living options and reflects shifts in urban life, where the lines between work and home are increasingly blurred. It allows the structure to respond to changing societal needs without extensive redesign.

Mixed-Use Integration

The design thoughtfully integrates mixed-use spaces. It combines retail, business areas, and recreational facilities to foster a sense of community. This approach enhances accessibility and encourages interaction among occupants and visitors. By creating a multifunctional environment, the project aims to contribute to a lively urban setting.

Sustainable Approach

Sustainability is a central theme in the project, evident in the selection of materials. The use of cross-laminated timber and glued laminated timber not only provides structural benefits but also supports goals for reducing environmental impact. These materials have lower carbon footprints compared to traditional construction elements, aligning with broader efforts to embrace eco-friendly practices in architecture.

The building’s clear lines and thoughtful design create a modern silhouette on the New York skyline. Each element of the project works together towards a purpose, enhancing the experience of urban living.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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