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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Integrated Community Spaces in Urban Context

Authors:
Clément Gauchet-dumortier, Kenza Jidad, Baptiste Moreau
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure With Integrated Community Spaces in Urban Context

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and designed with innovative communal spaces, this urban housing solution effectively transforms underused lots in San Francisco into a vibrant residential community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and unique texture.
03
Features modular units adaptable for varying family sizes and community needs.
04
Integrates communal spaces specifically designed to encourage resident interaction.
05
Transforms former parking lots into livable, vibrant community environments.
The Urban Module project represents a thoughtful response to the pressing housing challenges in San Francisco, a city often characterized by its tight real estate market and high demand for affordable living spaces. This architectural endeavor embodies a shift toward modular housing design, which balances functionality with the community's need for inclusive living arrangements. The project showcases a commitment to innovative urban solutions, focusing on adaptability, sustainability, and community integration.

Characterized by its modular approach, the design comprises several units that can accommodate different living arrangements, including studios, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom configurations. This flexibility allows the project to cater to diverse household sizes and income levels, enhancing its functionality as urban housing. Each unit promotes efficient space usage, effectively blending the concepts of comfort and practicality while also addressing the spatial constraints typical of urban environments.

The overall aesthetic of the Urban Module reflects a contemporary architectural language that resonates with the existing urban fabric of San Francisco. The facade utilizes timber, recognized for its sustainable properties and minimal environmental impact. This material not only contributes to the building's structural integrity but also offers an inviting texture that interacts positively with the surrounding landscape. The choice of large glass windows enhances the units' brightness and encourages natural light penetration, which is essential for creating a pleasant living atmosphere. By thoughtfully incorporating both timber and glass, the design manages to achieve a harmonious balance between modernity and warmth.

Unique design approaches define the Urban Module project, notably in how it integrates social and private spaces. The development includes carefully designed communal areas that foster interaction among residents. Open pathways and gathering places promote community engagement, essential in dense urban settings where social connections can often feel fragmented. The architectural layout supports a sense of belonging, making it not just a housing solution but a place that encourages shared experiences and community cohesion.

Balcony designs further highlight the innovative architectural strategies employed in this project. Each balcony is enclosed with a metal mesh, ensuring privacy while allowing for ventilation and unobstructed views of the surroundings. This consideration of outdoor spaces provides residents with an extension of their living area, accommodating personal expression and outdoor relaxation.

Additionally, the project addresses the challenge of utilizing underused urban spaces, transforming former parking lots into vibrant housing opportunities. This adaptive reuse speaks to the importance of efficient land use in urban contexts, facilitating a revitalization of areas with potential while respecting the existing context. By infusing life into these spaces, the Urban Module not only provides housing solutions but also contributes to the overall richness of the urban environment.

In sum, the Urban Module project is a compelling manifestation of modern architectural principles applied to the unique challenges of San Francisco's housing landscape. Its modular design, thoughtful material selection, and focus on community integration highlight an emerging architectural narrative that values inclusivity and sustainability. For further insights, exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas related to this project will deepen understanding of how innovative design approaches can effectively respond to urban housing needs.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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