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Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Creating Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Youngki Park, Sungkyun Ahn
Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Creating Flexible Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber, these adaptable housing modules promote efficient urban living through flexible design and sustainable practices, catering to the needs of a densely populated community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes spatial functionality.
04
Modular arrangement allows for flexible reconfiguration based on resident needs.
05
Includes integrated systems for effective water management and renewable energy collection.

### Project Overview

The Micro City project addresses urban population density challenges in South Korea, particularly in rapidly growing metropolitan areas like Seoul. The design emphasizes sustainability, community living, and efficient use of space through a modular housing approach. This strategy aims to enhance livability while reducing environmental impacts, presenting an alternative to traditional housing models.

### Spatial Organization and Community Integration

The project features compact housing modules that prioritize community interaction and collaboration. The overall layout is divided into three distinct zones: Commercial, Creative, and Social. The Commercial Zone supports local businesses, fostering economic vitality. The Creative Zone includes parks and shared spaces to encourage social engagement and artistic pursuits, while the Social Zone facilitates small businesses and social interactions. This zoning promotes a cohesive community environment, facilitating a sense of belonging among residents.

### Sustainable Material Selection

A careful selection of materials underpins the project's commitment to sustainability and aesthetic quality. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is used for its structural integrity and reduced carbon footprint, while timber veneer enhances the facade's visual appeal with minimal resource use. Polycarbonate panels ensure natural light penetration and thermal efficiency, and insulated timber panels contribute to overall energy performance. Additionally, the incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and stormwater management systems, reflects an integrated approach to environmental responsibility.

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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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