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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Resilient Community Amidst Reconstructed Landscapes

Authors:
Kaho Higuchi, Riko Hiraiwa
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Resilient Community Amidst Reconstructed Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the design transforms damaged urban landscapes into a cohesive living environment that fosters community resilience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features multiple rooftop gardens tailored to specific community activities.
04
Categorizes residential units based on varying levels of prior damage for targeted reconstruction.
05
Integrates transparent photovoltaic panels to support energy needs while maximizing natural light.

### Overview
The Patchwork Memorial is situated in an urban area impacted by significant damage, aiming to address both individual residential needs and community resilience. The project explores a creative regeneration approach that prioritizes not only the physical repair of structures but also the emotional and social rebuilding of the community fabric.

### Spatial Strategy
Central to the design is the concept of "patchwork," which serves as both a metaphor and a structural strategy. Residential units are categorized into four distinct damage tiers, each reflecting varying levels of repair: Damage 0 (no damage), Damage 1 (external cladding damage), Damage 2 (module wall damage), and Damage 3 (complete module damage). This classification informs the spatial layout and aesthetic reconfiguration of the building complex, allowing for flexible adjustments to meet resident needs. The integration of diverse living spaces promotes connectivity, supporting an effective balance between private and communal environments.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The Patchwork Memorial employs a conscientious selection of materials that prioritize sustainability and efficiency. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) forms the primary structural framework, complemented by recycled CLT materials to foster a circular economy. Energy-efficient aspects include insulated materials and transparent photovoltaic panels, which generate renewable energy and enhance natural lighting within the spaces. The use of insulated glass balances visibility with thermal performance, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the building.

### Community Integration and Functionality
The design incorporates public rooftop gardens that feature various activity-specific spaces, such as a Ping Pong garden and an urban farm. This facilitates community interaction and supports ecological diversity. Ground-level areas are designed to enhance commercial activity, consolidating essential services such as cafés and grocery stores to maximize accessibility. Circulation is strategically arranged through ramps and stairs, promoting easy movement between private apartments and public zones, thus fostering community connectivity. Each design element deliberately contributes to a narrative of recovery, underscoring a commitment to social inclusivity and engagement.

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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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