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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Integrated Central Courtyard for Compact Urban Living

Author:
David Huntly-grant
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Integrated Central Courtyard for Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and a central courtyard, the design emphasizes efficient use of space while facilitating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, serving as a compact urban dwelling.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for increased durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a central courtyard that integrates outdoor space with interior areas.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize height and interior volume.
05
Employs double-glazing for superior energy efficiency and natural light intake.
The "3 Box House" is a microhome architectural design that efficiently utilizes a compact footprint of 25 m². This project exemplifies modern urban living, focusing on adaptability, sustainability, and functionality. The overall design is based on a modular system comprising three distinct boxes, each designed for specific purposes while maintaining connectivity throughout the living space. This configuration allows for a versatile layout that can easily accommodate various lifestyles.

The primary function of the "3 Box House" is to provide an efficient living environment that balances work, leisure, and relaxation. Each box within the design serves a dedicated role: a central area for living and working, a cooking space, and a sleeping area, all thoughtfully organized to maximize space usage. The integrated bathroom is positioned to ensure privacy without sacrificing convenience. The layout is complemented by a central courtyard, which serves as an extension of the living spaces, promoting natural light and encouraging outdoor interactions.

The use of sustainable materials is a notable characteristic of the "3 Box House." Weathered Siberian larch cladding provides durability and aesthetic appeal, while wood fibre insulation board enhances thermal performance. The structure is supported by cross-laminated timber (CLT), which offers a sustainable, lightweight option compared to traditional materials. Polished concrete flooring is selected for its durability and minimal maintenance requirements, while double-glazed units ensure energy efficiency and sound insulation.

What sets the "3 Box House" apart from other similar projects is its emphasis on flexibility and connection to the environment. The modular design allows residents to customize their living space according to changing needs. Additionally, the large windows and courtyard create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a relationship with the surrounding natural environment. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, allowing the home to function independently while minimizing its ecological footprint.

The design achievements extend to its capacity for scalability. The "3 Box House" can be expanded or reduced in size based on the occupants' requirements, making it a suitable solution for urban development where space is often a constraint. This adaptability is coupled with a high degree of recyclability, as up to 95% of the materials used can be reclaimed or repurposed at the end of the building's life cycle.

For those interested in learning more about the intricacies of this project, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs is encouraged. Reviewing these elements provides a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that underpin the "3 Box House" and its suitability for modern living challenges.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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