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Cross-Laminated Timber Structuring with Charred Shingles for Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Kevin Andrew Johnson
Cross-Laminated Timber Structuring with Charred Shingles for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the design emphasizes sustainability while providing adaptable housing units that foster community interaction in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a modular design allowing for flexibility in unit size and configuration.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Utilizes locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact and support the local economy.
04
Includes integrated solar panels to promote energy self-sufficiency for residents.
05
Design emphasizes communal spaces to foster social interaction and community engagement.
The Regenerative Complex Housing (R.C.H.) project in Kharkiv, Ukraine, represents a contemporary approach to urban living, combining modular design with sustainable practices. This architectural project is aimed at addressing housing needs while promoting community interaction and environmental responsibility. The design incorporates adaptable living units that cater to diverse family sizes, fostering a sense of community within a modern urban framework.

Modular Living Spaces

R.C.H. employs a modular system to accommodate varying household requirements. It consists of four distinct unit types: Type S, Type M, Type L, and Type XL. Each type is tailored to serve individual preferences and economic possibilities. This versatility allows the project to respond dynamically to demographic changes, facilitating expansion or alteration as needed.

The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) as the primary construction material is noteworthy. This eco-friendly material not only reduces carbon emissions but also enables faster assembly, contributing to the overall efficiency of the housing project. Additionally, each unit is designed with sustainable elements, such as integrated solar panels and green rooftops, promoting energy independence and encouraging environmental stewardship among residents.

Community and Social Integration

A critical aspect of the R.C.H. project lies in its emphasis on community-centric design. The layout includes shared public spaces, such as community markets and recreational areas, designed to promote social interaction among residents. Playgrounds and accessible transportation points enhance the community’s livability and sustainability. These features aim to forge strong social bonds and improve overall quality of life, ensuring that the project is not merely a collection of housing units, but a vibrant neighborhood.

This project also acknowledges Kharkiv’s cultural context by integrating architectural styles that resonate with the city’s historic identity. The design features encourage homage to local architecture while pushing boundaries toward a sustainable future.

Sustainable Practices in Design

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of the R.C.H. project. Beyond using renewable materials, the architectural design includes systems for efficient energy use and management. Thermal blankets aid in insulation, reducing energy consumption, while landscaped communal areas contribute to local biodiversity. The integration of renewable energy solutions supports the project’s goal of creating a self-sustaining living environment.

The architectural plans and sections reflect a commitment to improving the ecological footprint of urban housing. R.C.H. is poised to set a benchmark for future developments by demonstrating how thoughtful design can tackle various societal challenges, from social cohesion to environmental sustainability.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural initiative, detailed presentations of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and overall ideas are available, offering deeper insights into the unique attributes of this project.
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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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