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Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles for Sustainable Urban Housing

Author:
Jeff Gard
Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles for Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this innovative housing solution redefines urban living by transforming parking lots into flexible, affordable residences that foster community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular construction system that allows quick assembly on urban sites.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and visual appeal.
03
Features integrated community spaces designed to foster social interaction among residents.
04
Includes built-in renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels, for efficiency.
05
Adapts to varying lot sizes, providing flexible housing options tailored to community needs.
The project is a well-considered architectural design focused on addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in urban environments, particularly in a city like San Francisco. It represents a thoughtful response to the housing crisis by reimagining underutilized urban spaces such as city-owned parking lots, transforming them into functional, multi-story housing units designed to accommodate a range of community needs. The design reflects a commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, emphasizing density and adaptability in its approach.

This architectural endeavor is not merely about erecting structures; it embodies a vision for a livable urban landscape that offers flexibility and inclusivity. The primary function of the project is to provide immediate, stable housing solutions that cater to various demographics, from single residents to families. By creating a series of modular units, the design allows for the dynamic reorganization of living spaces to suit residents' changing needs.

Central to the project’s design philosophy is the "Bottle Rack Concept," which utilizes cross-laminated timber for its construction. This modern material provides a high degree of flexibility while ensuring structural strength and sustainability. The project includes additional materials such as frosted glass for privacy, waterproof membrane panels for weatherproofing, and solar panels to enhance energy efficiency. This careful selection of materials underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture, allowing the buildings to blend harmoniously into their urban context while minimizing their ecological footprint.

The design incorporates various essential features that contribute to its functionality and livability. Each modular unit is designed with built-in amenities, including kitchens, storage solutions, and sanitary facilities, aimed at promoting independence among residents. Shared community spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the design, such as communal gardens and plazas, which foster interaction and social cohesion among residents, essential aspects of urban living that enhance the quality of life.

A unique design aspect of the project is its rapid assembly capability. The modular construction allows for quick deployment, significantly reducing the time typically associated with building new housing. This aspect is crucial in addressing the urgent need for housing solutions, making it a viable response to the immediate challenges faced in urban housing markets. Furthermore, by offering dual-use spaces that accommodate both residential and commercial functions, the design encourages economic activity and supports local businesses.

The project is situated in a vibrant urban setting, where the design not only aims to address housing scarcity but also enriches the streetscape. The careful attention to street-level perspectives promotes accessibility and interaction with the surrounding environment, creating a user-friendly atmosphere. The colorful facades and landscaped features contribute to a lively urban experience while promoting community identity.

Various case studies are integral to the understanding of the design's impact. For instance, smaller projects involving single lots can house dozens of individuals, while larger projects can scale up to several hundred units, providing a continuum of housing options. Each approach is tailored to the specific needs of the neighborhood while remaining flexible enough to adapt as those needs evolve.

This architectural project exemplifies how thoughtful design can be leveraged to tackle significant social issues like housing shortages. By utilizing innovative material choices, flexible design strategies, and community-oriented spaces, the project sets a standard for future developments in affordable housing. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented in this project to gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and ideas that inform this comprehensive approach to urban housing.
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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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