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Elevated Community Spaces Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Sara Di valerio, Giacomo Fontanive, Gregorio Gottardo
Elevated Community Spaces Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the design redefines urban living with its elevated communal spaces and diverse housing options tailored for contemporary community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a flexible layout that adapts to various household compositions.
02
Features an elevated communal area designed as a 'street in the sky' for enhanced social interaction.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for superior durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates natural insulation materials to improve energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
05
Showcases a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural performance and aesthetic appeal.
The architectural design project in question exemplifies a contemporary approach to urban living, integrating residential spaces with communal amenities within a cohesive framework. Situated in a historically significant area, the design aims to blend modern necessities with the existing urban fabric, catering to the evolving needs of residents while respecting traditional context. This multi-functional development emphasizes accessibility, social connectivity, and sustainability, setting a precedent for future urban projects.

Unique Layers of Functionality

The project introduces a distinctive concept termed "5th floor with street in the sky," allowing for the maximization of shared spaces in an urban setting. This elevated communal area facilitates interaction among residents and provides access to amenities that enhance the living experience. The architectural layout includes diverse housing typologies—ranging from two-person units to five-person apartments—ensuring inclusivity and adaptability for various demographics.

The design also emphasizes the relationship between private and shared environments. Residents benefit from both personal living spaces and communal zones, fostering a strong sense of community. This duality is reflected in the fluid circulation paths throughout the building, allowing residents to traverse between different areas seamlessly.

Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

The integration of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and precast concrete elements showcases a thoughtful approach to materiality and sustainability. The use of natural insulation materials reinforces energy efficiency while demonstrating a commitment to reducing the ecological footprint of the project. High-performance windows not only enhance thermal insulation but also improve the overall acoustic comfort of the living spaces.

This careful selection of materials contributes to the architectural identity of the project, aligning aesthetic considerations with functional requirements. The result is a contemporary design that resonates with its historical context while providing modern solutions to housing demands.

The project’s configuration illustrates a deliberate intention to harmonize diverse functions within a unified architectural expression. The design not only accommodates residential needs but also fosters a lifestyle where community and accessibility are at the forefront.

For those interested in exploring the project further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provides deeper insights into the innovative ideas and technical aspects of this undertaking. Such an in-depth examination reveals how the project harmoniously integrates various elements for a cohesive urban living experience.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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