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Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Transforming Urban Parking into Housing

Authors:
Ailin Adelinik, Alireza Taghipoor
Cross-Laminated Timber Modules Transforming Urban Parking into Housing
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Constructed from cross-laminated timber modules, this innovative approach repurposes underutilized urban parking spaces into functional housing units, addressing the critical need for residential development in Toronto.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructs housing above existing parking lots, maximizing urban space efficiency.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for sustainability and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features modular design for quick assembly and adaptability to various sites.
04
Integrates vertical circulation modules to streamline infrastructure placement.
05
Reinforces existing low-rise structures to support new residential units.

The project addresses housing challenges in Toronto, a city that is rapidly growing and facing increased demand for residential units. The design focuses on underutilized spaces such as single-story transport terminals, large parking lots, and low-rise structures. It aims to create new housing opportunities while promoting community interaction and enhancing urban connectivity.

Design Strategy

The approach emphasizes integrating residential units into the existing urban environment. This strategy seeks to make efficient use of land to accommodate the city’s growing population. By reimagining spaces that were once dedicated to commercial activities, the design aligns with the evolving needs of the community.



Modular Construction

A key feature of the design is the use of prefabricated modules. These modular units can be configured in various ways, including studio and multi-bedroom apartments. Off-site production streamlines assembly, resulting in shorter construction times and less disruption for surrounding areas during development.



Sustainability and Material Use

The project incorporates mass timber, specifically cross-laminated timber (CLT), which is known for its environmentally friendly properties. This material helps lower carbon emissions and allows for quicker construction. The design also includes vertical circulation modules, ensuring essential systems like plumbing and HVAC are integrated efficiently.



Structural Reinforcement

It's important to reinforce existing structures to support the new additions. Detailed structural analyses confirm that low-rise buildings can handle the increased load from new residential units. In open areas, platforms are constructed to provide a stable base for the modules, making effective use of available space.


Overall, this design represents a practical response to urban needs, where modular units integrate into the city landscape, offering much-needed housing options while supporting sustainable growth.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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