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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Blending with Riverside Landscapes for Community Engagement

Authors:
Judah Braman, Henk Veld, Keegan Reardon, Hans Nelson Romine
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Blending with Riverside Landscapes for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Emerging from a thoughtful interplay of cross-laminated timber and expansive glass facades, this structure fosters community interaction while seamlessly integrating into the riverside landscape as a multifunctional public space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes cross-laminated timber for its primary structure, promoting sustainability and carbon capture.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide an additional layer of fire resistance while enhancing aesthetic depth.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for dynamic rooflines that create differentiated interior spaces.
04
Large glass facades maximize natural light, reducing energy consumption and connecting occupants with the landscape.
05
Integrated green roofs support biodiversity and improve thermal performance, elevating environmental responsibility.
The project, situated along the southern bank of the Monongahela River in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, presents a thoughtful amalgamation of architectural design, community engagement, and sustainability. Known for its innovative approach, this architectural endeavor serves multiple functions, creating a multifunctional space that connects urban life with the natural landscape. It reflects a commitment to enhancing both the human experience and the environment, embodying a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.

At its core, the design emphasizes connectivity, showcasing a physical and visual relationship between the building and its riverside location. The architecture incorporates a distinctive split form, a design element that resonates with the dynamic flow of the nearby river while echoing the urban skyline of Pittsburgh. This architectural approach not only defines the silhouette of the project but also facilitates fluid movement throughout the space, allowing users to seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor environments.

The unique architectural language is manifest in several important elements. One key aspect is the extensive use of cross-laminated timber, which serves as a primary structural material. This choice contributes to the sustainability goals of the project while providing warmth and texture to the interiors. The visible timber framework creates an inviting space, fostering an atmosphere that encourages interaction and collaboration among occupants.

Large glass facades characterize the design, strategically positioned to maximize natural light and frame expansive views of the surrounding landscape. By reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the relationship with nature, these design choices underline a commitment to environmental stewardship. Furthermore, integrating green roofs and living walls reinforces the project's sustainability initiatives. These features not only enhance biodiversity but also contribute to energy efficiency and improved air quality.

The spatial organization within the building reflects a commitment to community interaction. An atrium space serves as a central gathering point, encouraging social engagement among occupants while enhancing connectivity to the exterior. Flexible office spaces are designed to adapt to varying uses, allowing for a versatile environment that can respond to the changing needs of its users. This adaptability is crucial in a contemporary architectural context, where the functionality of spaces must align with evolving lifestyles.

Additionally, the proximity to local transportation options, including a nearby train station, underscores the project's emphasis on accessibility. This design choice encourages both sustainable commuting and active lifestyles, allowing residents and visitors to engage with their environment more fully. The landscape surrounding the building further reflects this ethos, featuring pedestrian pathways that invite exploration and foster a sense of community.

What sets this project apart is its synthesis of architectural design with cultural relevance. It acknowledges Pittsburgh's rich industrial history and its transformation into a modern hub of innovation. By integrating contemporary architectural ideas with a focus on sustainable practices and community-centric design, the project not only addresses the needs of those who inhabit it but also contributes positively to the broader urban context.

The careful attention to materiality, coupled with an intelligent design approach, makes this project a compelling case study in modern architecture. These unique aspects of the design foster an environment where individuals can connect with one another and their surroundings. Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas behind this initiative are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its design outcomes.
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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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