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Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Integrated with Garden Terraces for Urban Living

Authors:
Robert Cody, Angela Amoia
Cross-Laminated Timber Structures Integrated with Garden Terraces for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and integrated garden terraces, this development offers affordable urban housing that emphasizes sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetics.
03
Incorporates integrated garden terraces to promote urban greening.
04
Strategic placement near public transit to encourage sustainable commuting.
05
Offers flexible modular units adaptable to various family and income needs.
The Balboa Valley Housing project is an architectural initiative located in San Francisco, California. This development is designed to provide affordable housing options within an urban context, focusing on accessibility and sustainability. The architecture emphasizes the integration of modular construction techniques, enabling efficient use of space and resources. The project seeks to illustrate a practical response to housing demands while ensuring a connection to the wider city infrastructure.

Sustainability and community engagement are key components of this design. By situating the project near the Balboa Park BART station, it facilitates easy access to public transportation, thereby encouraging environmentally friendly commuting patterns. This location strategically positions the development within a broader transit-oriented framework, minimizing reliance on automobiles.

Modular construction is a defining feature of this project, utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) as the main structural element. This choice promotes a reduced carbon footprint and minimizes waste during the building process. The concrete foundation offers stability and durability, while extensive glazing is incorporated to enhance natural lighting and create visual connections to the outside environment. The use of natural finishes throughout the interior spaces, such as wood, creates a comfortable living atmosphere.

One of the project’s distinctive aspects is its attention to communal spaces, emphasizing interaction among residents. The inclusion of outdoor common areas, garden terraces, and social zones provides opportunities for community bonding and promotes a sense of belonging. Additionally, features like roof gardens, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems highlight the project’s commitment to ecological practices.

The variety of residential units is tailored to accommodate diverse income levels and family structures. With studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom apartments, the design meets the needs of varying demographics. The modular approach also allows for adaptability in unit configurations, which can evolve to address changing community requirements.

The Balboa Valley Housing project exemplifies a contemporary approach to urban living. Its focus on affordability, sustainability, and community interaction distinguishes it from other housing developments. To gain further insight into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation.
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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
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