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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Modular Living Experience With Sustainable Design Principles

Authors:
Jose Domingo Valdes Aguilar, Marisol Andrea Duran Perez
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Modular Living Experience With Sustainable Design Principles

Project in-detail

Integrating cross-laminated timber panels with modular construction techniques, this residential design fosters community interaction while emphasizing sustainability through smart resource management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency while enhancing thermal performance.
02
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and an aesthetic connection to local building traditions.
03
The bent A-frame design promotes natural water drainage and minimizes maintenance needs.
04
Modular units allow for customized living spaces, adapting to diverse resident requirements.
05
Integrated smart technology optimizes energy use and resource management throughout the residence.

## Sustainable Modular Residential System Overview

Located in a modern urban context, the proposed residential system integrates contemporary and traditional design elements within a modular framework. The project's intent focuses on sustainability, community-oriented spaces, and interior comfort while respecting the local cultural context. By balancing innovative technologies with regional architectural traditions, the design fosters environments that resonate with residents' identities and lifestyles.

### Spatial Configuration and User Engagement

The layout employs a modular approach, promoting flexibility and personalization to meet diverse user needs. Central to the design is a communal space that encourages social interaction, while independent modules are configured for privacy, reflecting local family dynamics and social customs. Connecting elements, such as corridors and openings, enhance cross-ventilation and natural light, creating a harmonious flow between different zones, including intimate living areas, communal spaces, and outdoor courtyards.

### Material Selection and Environmental Strategy

The architectural form consists of modular blocks crafted from a selection of sustainable materials, reinforcing durability and aesthetic cohesion. Key materials include precast concrete for thermal efficiency, strategically placed glass to maximize natural light, and wood accents that align with regional design heritage. Metal panels serve as shading devices, enhancing energy efficiency while contributing to visual interest. Environmental strategies include the integration of photovoltaic panels, water harvesting systems, and greywater recycling, all designed to reduce dependency on public utilities and promote eco-friendly living practices. The project adheres to local building regulations and is designed for future adaptability, accommodating growth and evolving community needs.

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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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