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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Urban Living with Community-Centric Design

Author:
Hanyu Zheng
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Urban Living with Community-Centric Design
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Utilizing cross-laminated timber walls and a flexible modular system, the design fosters community engagement while providing sustainable housing solutions in an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural performance and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a flexible modular design that allows for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and promote natural lighting.
05
Located in Kreuzberg, integrating seamlessly with the vibrant urban community.

The URBAN ‘MODULator’ is a modular housing project situated in Berlin, targeting the need for affordable living spaces in urban settings. This initiative embodies a design that prioritizes ecological sustainability, flexibility, and community integration. By utilizing contemporary modular construction techniques, the project aims to respond adeptly to the challenges of urban density while maintaining an efficient and practical approach to housing.

The design implements a modular system that allows for various configurations of living units. Each module measures approximately 9.6 m², enabling a range of living arrangements from compact studio apartments to larger multi-bedroom homes. This configuration not only provides an economic advantage but also facilitates straightforward construction and the potential for easy relocation or reconfiguration in response to changing urban needs.

Innovative Material Choices Enhance Sustainability

One key aspect that delineates the URBAN ‘MODULator’ from other housing projects is its commitment to sustainability through material selection. The primary materials utilized in the construction include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), concrete, and glass. The use of CLT contributes to a reduced carbon footprint while providing the necessary structural integrity. Concrete, strategically used in conjunction with timber, enhances durability and fire resistance, securing the longevity of the structures. Glass elements in the façades further bolster the project's environmental objectives by maximizing natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

Modular Flexibility and Community Integration

Another distinct characteristic of the URBAN ‘MODULator’ is its emphasis on flexibility and community. The modular design enables residents to adapt their living spaces to their specific needs, whether they require a workspace, additional storage, or communal areas. This adaptability is essential in urban areas where space optimization is crucial. The arrangement of modules can foster a sense of community, allowing for shared public spaces that encourage social interactions among residents. This community-oriented approach serves as a vital component of the overall design, contributing to a coexistence between individual and collective living.

The URBAN ‘MODULator’ presents a compelling model for affordable housing that prioritizes environmental sustainability, adaptability, and community. For authoritative insights into its architectural details, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, we invite you to explore the project presentation for further information.

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

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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.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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