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Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Enhanced With Charred Wood Shingles in Urban Housing Development

Authors:
Craig Steven Griffen, Craig S Griffen
Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Enhanced With Charred Wood Shingles in Urban Housing Development

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles, the design creates an environmentally sensitive residential complex that fosters community interaction and sustainable living in the heart of Philadelphia.
5 key facts about this project
01
The complex features a three-story modular design that optimizes space while encouraging community interaction.
02
Cross-laminated timber is used extensively for structural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer weather resistance while contributing to the building's aesthetic appeal.
04
The bent A-frame design enhances natural light penetration and promotes passive heating.
05
Community gardens are integrated into the layout, supporting urban biodiversity and green living.

## Analytical Report on Trinity Towers: A Sustainable Housing Initiative in Philadelphia

### Overview

Trinity Towers is located in the Lower North District of Philadelphia, an area characterized by a significant number of vacant lots and a pressing need for affordable housing solutions. The project aims to address the dual challenges of housing affordability and sustainability through innovative architectural design. It serves as a prototype for urban renewal, directly responding to the contextual needs of the community and contributing to the revitalization of the neighborhood.

### Site Layout and Spatial Configuration

The layout consists of three combined lots that facilitate an organized community environment. The design prioritizes natural light through strategic building orientation, enhancing passive solar heating and daylighting capabilities. The plan integrates micro-units designed for efficient living while fostering social interaction. Ground floor communal spaces are incorporated to promote engagement among residents, thereby strengthening community ties.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project places significant emphasis on sustainability, utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) as the primary structural material. This choice not only reduces carbon emissions but also supports rapid construction and prefabrication. Rooftop photovoltaic panels are installed for renewable energy generation, while extensive greenery throughout the site promotes biodiversity and enhances thermal performance. Passive energy strategies, including optimized ventilation and sunlight capture, contribute to a sustainable living environment, while features such as rainwater harvesting further support ecological goals.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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