Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Units with Integrated Wind Shafts in a Modular Community Design

Authors:
Shu hwee Yoeng, Yu qin Zhong, En lai Tong, Xiao Liu
Cross-Laminated Timber Units with Integrated Wind Shafts in a Modular Community Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber units and integrated wind shafts, the design creates a flexible modular system that fosters community interaction while providing efficient living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabricated volumetric construction for rapid on-site assembly.
02
Incorporates natural biophilic elements to enhance interior environment quality.
03
Features adjustable modular units that allow for personalized living configurations.
04
Employs cross-ventilation shafts to optimize airflow and reduce energy consumption.
05
Integrates communal terraces designed for social interaction among residents.
The architectural design project known as "Out of the Box" focuses on innovative modular housing that addresses the pressing needs of urban populations. Located in a dense urban environment, the project aims to create an affordable and adaptable living solution that fosters community interaction while providing adequate private spaces. It employs a system of interlocking units that can be customized according to the residents' needs, illustrating a new approach to collective living. The design optimizes light, air circulation, and connections among residents, facilitating a harmonious coexistence within a compact footprint.

Unique Modularity and Customization Potential

What sets this project apart from conventional housing designs is its modularity and flexibility. The architecture is conceived using a series of trapezoidal units that can be configured in various arrangements, allowing for personalization of living spaces. This flexibility not only caters to individual preferences but also accommodates changing family dynamics and diverse lifestyles. Additional communal spaces, such as terraces and courtyards, promote social interaction while maintaining private areas for residents.

Sustainability through Innovative Design

The project places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsiveness. The design incorporates features such as cross-ventilation systems and natural light strategies to minimize energy consumption. The materials selection further enhances its sustainability aspect; concrete provides structural integrity while wood adds warmth and biological benefits. The use of Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) ensures efficient assembly on-site while reducing construction waste. This forward-thinking approach to materiality and sustainability makes "Out of the Box" a noteworthy example within contemporary architecture.

Explore the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of architectural plans, sections, designs, and concepts that inform this innovative project. Engaging with these elements will shed further light on the architectural ideas driving "Out of the Box."
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy