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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Steel Integration in Sustainable Urban Living Spaces

Author:
Olivia Jeffries
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Steel Integration in Sustainable Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and steel for structural integrity, this design merges sustainable living with modular housing solutions in a revitalized urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance.
03
Features a modular design that promotes adaptability for varying household sizes.
04
Includes dedicated urban farming spaces integrated into communal areas.
05
Enhances natural light through strategic glass placement in living units.

The Tiered Gardens project is a contemporary architectural design that addresses the need for affordable housing while enhancing urban green spaces. Situated in a downtown suburban area, the project integrates living spaces with landscaped environments, prioritizing both community interaction and ecological sustainability. The design features a modular layout that accommodates diverse demographics and adapts to varying housing needs, utilizing simple yet effective architectural principles.

The project consists of three types of residential units—Unit A, Unit B, and Unit C—ranging from 41.7 m² to 103.7 m². Each block is strategically arranged to foster community engagement, with emphasis placed on shared green spaces, including parks, courtyards, and gardens. The integration of these spaces encourages social interaction and promotes environmental stewardship among residents.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of the Tiered Gardens project is its modular configuration, allowing for efficient use of space and flexibility in accommodating different family sizes. This adaptability is essential in urban environments where housing demand is high and diverse. The architectural design emphasizes seamless integration of outdoor and indoor living, with units orienting toward exterior views and shared courtyards.

Materiality is another crucial aspect of the project. The choice of materials—steel for structural integrity, wood for warmth, concrete for durability, and glass for increased natural lighting—reflects a balanced approach to aesthetics and functionality. This thoughtful selection not only enhances the architectural expression but also supports sustainability initiatives.

Integration with the surrounding environment is a vital focus of the design. The project aims to revitalize underutilized urban spaces by incorporating pathways for pedestrian and bicycle access. This not only encourages sustainable transport but also enhances the overall accessibility of the community, creating a cohesive environment where residents can easily engage with both their neighbors and the surrounding landscape.

The Tiered Gardens project stands as a viable model for contemporary urban housing solutions. For those interested in a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that underpin this project, a detailed presentation is available for exploration. Understanding these architectural ideas can provide valuable insights into effective urban design strategies that meet housing demands while promoting community and environmental wellbeing.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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