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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enabling Compact Living Solutions with Charred Wood Aesthetics

Author:
Scott Donnell
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enabling Compact Living Solutions with Charred Wood Aesthetics
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood, this residential unit demonstrates efficient use of space while prioritizing sustainability, offering a viable solution for modern urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and natural light.
04
Features integrated photovoltaic panels for energy efficiency and reduced electrical costs.
05
Prioritizes communal outdoor spaces to encourage social interaction among residents.

The Microhome 2021 project is an innovative architectural design situated in Auckland, New Zealand, addressing the pressing need for affordable and sustainable housing solutions. This project represents a strategic response to the challenges of urban density, rising housing costs, and environmental sustainability. Functionally, it is designed as a single or multi-unit residential housing option that emphasizes efficiency, adaptability, and community integration.

The project employs a compact design that maximizes available space while ensuring that residents experience a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. Features such as flexible interior layouts and ample natural light work harmoniously to create a livable environment that responds to varying occupant needs. The use of local materials and a strong focus on sustainability are core principles of the Microhome, showcasing how thoughtful architecture can achieve economic and ecological goals simultaneously.

Innovative Design Approaches

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Microhome is its emphasis on multi-functionality. Spaces are adaptable, allowing for various uses—living, working, and relaxing—in response to the diverse lifestyles of potential residents. This flexibility is essential in urban settings where space is often limited, and conventional housing layouts may not cater to all occupants effectively.

The design also prioritizes environmental integrity through the selection of low-carbon materials, including sustainable wood and low-carbon cement, which reduces the overall ecological impact of construction. Incorporating photovoltaic panels into the roof design showcases the project’s commitment to renewable energy, further aligning with contemporary environmental standards. The integration of a green roof system not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes to efficient insulation and stormwater management.

Community Engagement and Well-Being

The Microhome project places significant emphasis on social interaction while providing personal privacy. Its layout encourages communal activities through shared outdoor spaces and communal amenities, which is essential for fostering a sense of community among residents. This design approach acknowledges the importance of social well-being as a vital component of overall health, particularly in urban environments.

The architectural plans and sections reflect a thoughtful arrangement that accommodates both private and communal activities, ensuring a balanced living environment. Aspects such as strategic window placement maximize natural ventilation and light, improving indoor air quality and mental well-being for inhabitants.

In summary, the Microhome 2021 exemplifies a comprehensive architectural response to modern housing challenges. Its innovative use of materials, commitment to sustainability, and focus on social well-being make it a notable example in the field of architecture. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation, which provides a detailed overview of this compelling initiative.

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MICROHOME 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

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

`
Competition organisers

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.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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