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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Communal Living in Urban Micro-Community

Authors:
Tsz Wai Yvonne Yuen, Doi Yee Lau
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Communal Living in Urban Micro-Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels for structural design, the micro-community prioritizes shared communal spaces while providing adaptable living solutions in a high-density urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes modular stacking to adapt unit configurations based on site specifics.
02
Incorporates communal terraces that function as social hubs for residents.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles as a sustainable weather-resistant exterior finish.
05
Integrates shared amenities to foster community interaction among diverse residents.
This architectural design project focuses on the development of micro-community housing, tailored to address urban density and promote harmonious living. It embodies an innovative approach to modern urban architecture, where compact living units coexist with communal spaces to foster social interaction. The project is designed to accommodate a diverse demographic, comprising families, young professionals, and couples. By optimizing limited urban space through thoughtful design, it seeks to enhance the quality of life for residents while addressing housing needs in high-density environments.

Spatial Configuration and Community Focus
The architectural layout demonstrates a modular design that allows flexible stacking and arrangement of residential units. Each living unit is compact, maximizing the usability of space while ensuring privacy. This design includes three configurations: the Family Unit, designed for families with multiple modules for shared living; the Working Force Unit, aimed at single professionals emphasizing common amenities; and the Couple Unit, which integrates essential living functions within a smaller footprint.

The project also prioritizes communal areas located on strategic horizontal planes within the structure. These shared spaces serve as social hubs that encourage interaction among residents, enhancing the community feel. By incorporating balconies and terraces, the design promotes outdoor engagement, linking private spaces with communal activities. Such spatial arrangements are fundamental to improving social ties in urban settings.

Innovative Material Application and Sustainability
Utilization of diverse materials is a distinguishing characteristic of this project. Concrete forms the primary structural frame, providing durability and stability. In contrast, wood accents enhance warmth in various elements such as external staircases and railings. Metal components contribute to the aesthetic while ensuring safety in communal areas.

The project emphasizes sustainability by maximizing natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling. Thoughtful selection of materials not only enhances the building's longevity but also minimizes environmental impact, aligning with contemporary sustainable architectural practices.

Unique Adaptable Design Features
A significant aspect of this architectural design is its adaptability to different sites and user needs. The modular nature of the housing units allows for rotations and reconfigurations, enabling the project to respond to specific urban conditions and planning regulations. This flexibility is essential in densely populated areas, where land availability is often challenged.

Furthermore, the design integrates innovative circulation pathways that facilitate movement within the structure while minimizing congestion. The layout ensures efficient access to both private and intended communal spaces, reinforcing the connection between residents.

Overall, this architectural design project presents a comprehensive approach that combines functionality and community spirit in a high-density context. To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further for detailed insights.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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