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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Optimizing Space and Energy Efficiency in Compact Living

Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Optimizing Space and Energy Efficiency in Compact Living
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber and enhanced by solar energy solutions, this compact living space redefines efficiency and adaptability for modern residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Equipped with integrated solar panels to maximize energy efficiency and self-sufficiency.
05
Includes a modular layout that allows for versatile usage and quick assembly.

## Overview

The project involves the design of a micro house, conceived to optimize energy efficiency and compact living while ensuring residential comfort. Located in a context that addresses diverse socio-economic backgrounds and emergency housing demands, the design aims to respond to global urbanization and environmental challenges through sustainable practices and flexibility of use.

## Spatial Strategy and User Adaptability

The micro house encompasses an efficient living area of approximately 25 square meters, tailored to accommodate various inhabitants, including individuals and families. The design utilizes adaptive principles, which enable customization to align with different cultural and social needs. Key strategic features include quick deployment methods, ease of transportation, and the ability to modify interior spaces for functions such as home offices or multi-functional sleeping areas.

## Materiality and Sustainability

### Exterior Elements

The exterior of the micro house features a combination of KingSpan panels and aluminum brise soleil, which enhance thermal regulation while contributing to aesthetic value. The roof integrates photovoltaic panels to foster energy autonomy, and its sloped design facilitates rainwater collection, complementing the overall modern aesthetic.

### Interior Composition

Internally, the micro house utilizes an open floor plan that maximizes functionality. This layout allows the living area to transition into dining space, while a kitchen equipped with contemporary appliances supports efficient living. A multipurpose platform serves as a dual-use space for both sleeping and working needs. Durable materials such as laminated bamboo flooring on Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) slabs are employed for their sustainability and low maintenance requirements.

## Sustainability Features

Resource efficiency is a core principle embedded in the design. It employs materials with high recyclability potential, such as laminated bamboo and Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing. Furthermore, integrated water collection systems facilitate the management of non-potable resources, and the strategic placement of windows and brise soleil enhances the thermal performance of the structure.

## Unique Attributes

Prominent aspects of the design include its modular nature, allowing adaptability to various terrains and the capacity for easy transportation. The micro house also addresses urgent housing needs through rapid deployment capabilities, making it suitable for disaster response scenarios. Additionally, the layout encourages community interactions by situating multiple units around shared green spaces, fostering a sense of community and resource sharing among residents.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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