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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Urban Farming Integrate for Sustainable Living Solutions

Author:
Amir Adibmanesh
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Urban Farming Integrate for Sustainable Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and integrating urban farming systems, the design creates a multifaceted living environment that promotes sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient prefabrication and reduced waste.
02
Incorporates hydroponic systems for year-round urban agriculture.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates smart home technology for optimal energy management and sustainability.
05
Design promotes community interaction through shared spaces and flexible living arrangements.
The V-GEN Eco-Village project is an architectural initiative based in Toronto, designed to address urban housing challenges while promoting sustainability and community engagement. The project integrates affordable housing with urban farming, creating a multifunctional space that balances residential needs with ecological responsibility. This design reflects the pressing demand for innovative solutions in high-cost urban environments.

Sustainable Design Integration

A notable aspect of V-GEN is its focus on sustainable construction materials and methods. Utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) as the primary structural component allows for efficient prefabrication and reduced construction waste. The project also employs concrete and steel for structural support, ensuring durability alongside environmental considerations. The design includes green roofs and dedicated farming zones, enabling residents to engage in urban agriculture and enhance their connection to nature.

The incorporation of advanced water management systems, including built-in water collection and hydroponics, exemplifies the project’s commitment to resource efficiency. Solar panels are integrated into the design, providing renewable energy that further minimizes the ecological footprint of the development. Passive heating and ventilation systems contribute to energy efficiency, demonstrating a holistic approach to architectural design that prioritizes both comfort and sustainability.

Community-Centric Architecture

V-GEN stands out for its emphasis on fostering social interaction within the residential framework. The layout promotes community living through shared spaces where residents can gather and participate in collective activities. This design approach not only enhances social cohesion but also addresses the broader objective of creating an inclusive environment where diverse groups can thrive.

The project challenges conventional residential layouts, offering Living Boxes that provide functional flexibility for inhabitants. Each unit is designed to incorporate spaces for personal and communal activities, blurring the lines between private and shared living. This innovative configuration reflects a modern understanding of urban living, where adaptability and community are essential.

Unique Environmental and Economic Attributes

The V-GEN project aligns with principles of the circular economy by utilizing local materials and incorporating systems aimed at reducing waste. The design has the potential to significantly lower grocery expenses for residents due to the urban farming components. The project’s focus on food security, combined with affordable housing, showcases a pragmatic response to contemporary urban living conditions.

V-GEN's integration of smart home technologies for resource management enhances its functionality, ensuring that the structure remains efficient and user-friendly. The combination of technological integration with natural elements provides a comprehensive living experience that meets the needs of modern inhabitants.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind the V-GEN Eco-Village project, the reader is encouraged to engage with the project's complete presentation, providing greater insight into its innovative approach to urban living.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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