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Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Integrating Green Facades in a Transit-Oriented Community Housing Design

Author:
Michael Raila
Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Integrating Green Facades in a Transit-Oriented Community Housing Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and green facades, the design creates a sustainable living environment adjacent to a transit hub, offering affordable housing that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and reduced environmental impact.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
04
Strategically positioned adjacent to a major transit hub to enhance accessibility.
05
Integrates communal spaces within the design to foster resident interaction and community building.
The project is an innovative architectural design focused on providing an efficient and sustainable solution to the pressing issue of affordable housing in urban environments, specifically in San Francisco, California. This initiative seeks to address the challenges faced by a growing population in a city where the demand for affordable living spaces is increasingly outpacing supply. The design represents a thoughtful response to housing shortages, catering to a diverse demographic, including individuals working in nearby tech industries, by incorporating modular living units that can adapt to various needs and lifestyles.

Functionally, the project serves as a mixed-use development that not only provides living accommodations but also integrates commercial spaces, thereby promoting a vibrant community atmosphere. This blend of residential and commercial areas is aimed at enhancing the daily lives of residents while contributing to the local economy. The architectural design includes essential amenities such as a grocery store and a restaurant located on the ground floor. This configuration ensures that residents have easy access to necessary services and fosters interaction among community members, making it more than just a place to live.

The architectural approach focuses on modular construction, a method that enables rapid assembly and flexibility in design. This technique allows for the reconfiguration of living spaces to cater to various household types and sizes, effectively responding to the differing needs of urban dwellers. Each module is designed to maximize functionality while maintaining a high standard of comfort and aesthetics.

The project incorporates sustainable building practices through the use of environmentally friendly materials such as cross-laminated timber. This material not only provides structural advantages but also contributes to a reduction in the overall carbon footprint of the construction. The incorporation of green facade panels is another significant feature, enhancing energy efficiency by providing additional insulation and supporting biodiversity within the urban setting.

An important aspect of the project is its emphasis on creating communal spaces that promote social interaction. These areas are strategically designed to encourage residents to engage with one another, fostering a sense of belonging and community. The inclusion of green spaces throughout the design further enhances the living experience, offering residents tranquil areas to relax and unwind amidst the urban hustle.

Another unique approach in this project is the integration of dynamic spatial configurations. By allowing for flexible living arrangements within the modular units, the design accommodates various lifestyle adaptations, whether for single professionals, small families, or temporary residents. This versatility not only maximizes the use of space but also provides housing solutions that can swiftly address changing demographic trends.

In summary, this architectural design project represents a forward-thinking solution to the challenges of urban housing in San Francisco. By emphasizing sustainability, modularity, and community, it stands as a testament to contemporary architectural ideas aimed at improving urban living conditions. To gain deeper insights into the specifics of this project, including architectural plans and sections, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation, which showcases the comprehensive vision behind this architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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