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Cross-Laminated Timber Modules With Integrated Sky Courtyards for Urban Living

Authors:
Brian Novanto, Yvonne Chan
Cross-Laminated Timber Modules With Integrated Sky Courtyards for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber modules and integrating sky courtyards, this design redefines urban residential living by fostering community interaction and environmental responsiveness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabricated cross-laminated timber modules for efficient construction.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
03
Features integrated sky courtyards that promote natural ventilation and daylight.
04
Includes adaptable layouts for varied resident needs and family sizes.
05
Designed with aluminum screens that provide privacy while allowing airflow.

## Overview of the Project

Located in Sydney, the design proposes a modular housing solution that reinterprets the traditional terrace house model. The intent is to provide a flexible, affordable, and sustainable residential typology that meets diverse urban needs. By incorporating modern design principles, the project seeks to enhance communal living while addressing contemporary housing challenges within a metropolitan context.

## Spatial Configuration and Community Interaction

The design employs a modular arrangement that allows for customizable unit configurations, including one, two, and three-bedroom options. This approach enables residents to adapt their living spaces according to evolving household dynamics. The architecture features communal areas such as sky courtyards and roof gardens, strategically positioned to facilitate social interactions among residents. These shared spaces are essential in fostering a sense of community within the densely populated urban environment.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The project prioritizes sustainable building practices through the careful selection of materials. Cross-laminated timber serves as the primary structural component, offering strength and environmental benefits. Reinforced concrete ensures stability in core elements, while perforated aluminum screens allow natural light and ventilation, contributing to energy efficiency. Prefabricated components facilitate efficient construction, and large glass panels provide residents with unobstructed views and enhanced natural light. Interior timber finishes create a warm and inviting atmosphere within the living spaces.

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

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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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