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Cross-Laminated Timber Towers Integrating Community Spaces in an Urban Landscape

Author:
Alexandre Troc
Cross-Laminated Timber Towers Integrating Community Spaces in an Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Built with cross-laminated timber and integrated green roofs, these vertical towers create vibrant community spaces that redefine urban living through a commitment to sustainability and social connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and unique aesthetic Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and outdoor views Includes terraces along communal pathways, fostering social interaction among residents Integrates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve urban air quality.
The architectural project "Symbiotics in Berlin" embodies a thoughtful integration of contemporary design principles with the historical context of urban living. Located within the bustling fabric of Berlin, this project seeks to redefine the way residential spaces interact with their environment and community. Its primary function is to provide multifaceted living accommodations that do not merely serve as homes but also as platforms for social interaction and communal engagement.

At the heart of the project is a concept that emphasizes symbiosis—the idea that individual living experiences can be enhanced through shared spaces and connections with others. This architectural approach considers the diverse needs of residents, allowing for a mixture of private living spaces along with common areas that encourage collaboration and connection. The design features vertical housing units organized in duplexes and triplexes, which create a sense of intimacy while optimizing the use of available urban land. The height of the residential towers ensures that each unit enjoys ample natural light and vistas, contributing both to comfort and to a sustainable living experience.

The project includes a network of pathways and walkways that interlink the residential towers, providing residents with accessible routes that are both practical and inviting. These walkways do not simply facilitate movement; they are designed as social spaces where residents can encounter one another, facilitating opportunities for spontaneous interactions. The incorporation of terraces along these pathways blurs the boundaries between private and public space, further promoting a community-oriented lifestyle.

Nature plays a significant role in this architectural project. Surrounding green spaces and the inclusion of vegetation are not only aesthetic choices but also vital components contributing to the ecological sustainability of the development. By integrating landscaping into the design, the project seeks to improve air quality and create a serene environment that enhances overall well-being.

Materiality is critical in conveying the ideals of this design. While specific materials may not be detailed in the images, the choice is expected to reflect a commitment to sustainability and modern aesthetics. Reinforced concrete may be utilized for structural robustness, complemented by expansive glass facades that allow extensive natural light while connecting the interior spaces to the vibrant urban context. The use of timber for walkways and shared areas offers warmth and a sense of natural continuity, while metal cladding could contribute urban character. Green roof systems may also be integrated, providing thermal insulation and promoting biodiversity within the urban landscape.

What sets "Symbiotics in Berlin" apart is its unique approach to urban housing. The project does not merely focus on density but instead emphasizes the quality of life for its residents. By fostering social interaction, encouraging community-building, and offering multifunctional spaces, this design marks a shift toward more humane and socially responsible urban living. It acknowledges that architecture is not merely about form but also about the experiences and connections it enables.

As the discussions around urban development continue to evolve, the architectural ideas presented in this project serve as a relevant case study. Its integration of communal spaces within a vertical living arrangement reflects an understanding of modern urban challenges and opportunities. For those interested in exploring the nuances of "Symbiotics in Berlin," delving into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design elements will provide deeper insights into the intentions and thought processes behind this notable project. The seamless blending of residential living and communal interaction invites further exploration of what modern architecture can achieve in urban settings.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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