Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Fluid Forms Uniting Community Living

Authors:
Kim Aleksandrowicz, Dion Srkulj, Holly Zhang, Sophie Sisko
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Fluid Forms Uniting Community Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and designed with fluid forms that encourage natural light and community interaction, this residence redefines sustainable living in an urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that promote fire resistance while adding texture to the facade.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes space while creating dynamic interior volumes.
04
Includes a sunken bath with a walkable bamboo cover, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Designed with double-height voids to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the residence.
The architectural project located in Balwyn North, a suburban area of Melbourne, Australia, represents a thoughtful and strategic response to the challenges posed by urban density and population growth. It addresses a significant context where the standard configuration of low-density single dwellings on quarter-acre blocks faces scrutiny amid a changing demographic and environmental landscape. The design proposition seeks to redefine what modern living can look like, melding aesthetic sensibility with practical functionality while fostering community engagement.

This architectural project is anchored on the principle of rethinking densification in housing. It illustrates that increasing housing density does not necessarily equate to a sacrifice in quality of life. Instead, this proposal embraces the challenge by integrating sustainable building practices and thoughtful design elements that promote both ecological balance and social connection. The project serves as a model for attaining a balance between growth and sustainability, setting a precedent for future residential developments in urban settings.

In terms of its purpose, the design encompasses residential units that are adaptable to contemporary living needs while stimulating interactions among residents. The layout prioritizes communal spaces that encourage family and neighborly gatherings, ensuring that the architecture not only provides shelter but also facilitates a supportive social environment. With the pressing demand for housing, this project illustrates versatility and innovation without losing sight of comfort and livability.

Important components of this architectural design include sculptural forms characterized by their organic shapes and flowing lines. The use of glue laminated timber and cross-laminated timber in the construction speaks to a commitment to sustainability, as these materials are renowned for their lower environmental impact compared to traditional building resources. The project's material choices reflect a preference for natural and renewable resources, setting a standard for future developments.

Internally, the design emphasizes an open-concept layout with interconnected living spaces. The dining area, situated alongside the kitchen, creates a cohesive environment ideal for daily interactions. The incorporation of various storage solutions throughout the design optimally utilizes space, demonstrating that contemporary architecture can be both efficient and stylish. Unique features such as a sunken bath with a walkable bamboo batten cover offer an unexpected surprise that encourages residents to connect with nature indoors.

Outside, terraces and verandahs seamlessly merge the interior and exterior spaces, promoting outdoor living that is essential in an urban environment. These features not only enhance the aesthetics of the architecture but also take advantage of natural light and ventilation, which are critical for energy efficiency. The deliberate placement of double-height voids in the design enhances air circulation and allows natural light to fill living areas, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The project champions a unique approach by incorporating elements that challenge conventional ideas about urban density. Each aspect of the design has been carefully considered to align with the overarching goal of creating beautiful and functional living spaces. By doing so, it reframes the narrative around high-density living, demonstrating that it can lead to enriched experiences and improved quality of life when executed thoughtfully.

To explore more about this architectural endeavor and its various elements, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and diverse architectural designs, readers are encouraged to delve into further presentations of the project. The intention is to inspire a dialogue on new architectural ideas that successfully respond to the societal demands of modern living while remaining grounded in principles of sustainability and community.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy