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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Living Within Sustainable Brownstone Design

Authors:
怡靚 吳, 思穎 李
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Living Within Sustainable Brownstone Design

Project in-detail

Employing cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the design promotes sustainable community living while integrating flexible co-housing units within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light.
04
Includes integrated rainwater harvesting systems for efficient water management.
05
Provides adaptable co-housing units to accommodate diverse family structures.
The architectural design project focuses on innovative housing solutions in an urban context, specifically in Milan, Italy. This initiative aims to address the challenge of affordability in housing while promoting sustainable living practices. The project emphasizes co-living and co-housing principles, creating a communal atmosphere that fosters social interaction among residents. The design is structured to offer private accommodations alongside shared amenities, which enhances community engagement without compromising individual privacy.

Sustainability is a core principle in the architectural design, incorporating materials and techniques that reduce environmental impact. The project utilizes reused brick, sustainable wood, recycled metal, photovoltaic panels, and green roof systems. These materials not only contribute to energy efficiency but also create a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with both modern and traditional architectural styles found in Milan.

Community-Centric Design Approach
A defining feature of this project is its community-centric design approach. The layout promotes shared spaces, including lounges, service areas, and outdoor communal gardens, encouraging resident interaction. This strategy is essential in urban settings, where isolation can be prevalent. By facilitating connections among residents, the design helps build a sense of belonging and community.

The architectural plan employs a modular configuration, allowing flexibility in living arrangements. This adaptability is important for accommodating diverse family sizes and changing demographic needs. Elements such as large windows ensure natural light permeates living spaces, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Sustainable Features and Innovative Practices
The project uniquely integrates sustainable features that address urban living challenges. The inclusion of rainwater harvesting systems demonstrates a commitment to responsible resource management, while the photovoltaic panels highlight a focus on renewable energy. These systems not only reduce reliance on non-renewable resources but also lower utility costs for residents.

Additionally, the use of vertical gardens enhances biodiversity and improves air quality, contributing to overall urban wellness. This approach aligns well with recent trends in architecture that prioritize ecological health alongside aesthetic and functional considerations.

In summary, this architectural design project offers a thoughtful and pragmatic solution to urban housing challenges. By prioritizing community engagement and sustainability, it sets a standard for future housing developments. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that define this initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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