Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Steel Framing in Compact Urban Living Solution

Author:
Ikenga Chijioke
Cross-Laminated Timber Meets Steel Framing in Compact Urban Living Solution

Project in-detail

Combining cross-laminated timber with a steel framework, this compact urban housing solution prioritizes community engagement and sustainability through flexible living spaces in an accessible design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and rapid construction.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a flexible layout designed to adapt to various resident needs.
04
Includes communal gardens to foster social interaction among residents.
05
Prioritizes energy efficiency through thoughtful material selection and design orientation.

## Analytical Report on the Bridge Housing Project for the Sydney Affordable Housing Challenge

### Overview
Located in Erskineville, Sydney, this project addresses the critical need for affordable housing within an urban context. As part of the Sydney Affordable Housing Challenge, the design prioritizes flexibility and sustainable living, offering a range of unit types to accommodate diverse lifestyles. The project aligns with urban revitalization efforts aimed at enhancing livability and accessibility in residential environments.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration
The design features a series of modular housing units that foster efficient space utilization while promoting community interaction. Each unit measures between 9 and 18 square meters, facilitating inclusivity by catering to varied demographics within a compact footprint. The arrangement centers around shared communal spaces, such as gardens and promenades, which encourage social cohesion and a sense of belonging among residents. Additionally, some units include balconies, providing an extension of personal living areas into the outdoor environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The construction employs steel for structural support, prefabricated metal panels for efficient assembly, wood for internal finishes that contribute warmth, and glass to maximize natural light. This combination not only reflects an industrial aesthetic but also underscores a commitment to sustainable practices. The use of prefabrication technology minimizes waste and construction time, while the selection of recyclable materials aligns with environmentally responsible building goals. The project exemplifies an integrated approach to sustainability, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic value of the living spaces.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy