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Elevated Habitat Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles Supporting Biodiversity and Community Resilience

Authors:
Jiale Wu, Weiyi Chen, Liyang Wu
Elevated Habitat Crafted With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wood Shingles Supporting Biodiversity and Community Resilience

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wood shingles, this vertical habitat integrates ecological restoration and community resilience, serving as an urban oasis for both people and wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural light and ventilation throughout the structure.
04
Integrates a vertical habitat system to support local biodiversity and wildlife interaction.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through accessible communal spaces and pathways.
The architectural project titled "The Lost Lighthouse in the City" is a well-considered response to the pressing ecological challenges faced by urban areas, specifically focusing on the city of Palangkaraya in Indonesia. This project represents a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, aiming not just to create living spaces but to foster a sustainable relationship between the community and its environment. Functionally, this project serves as both an observation space and a vertical habitat, designed to elevate human activities while allowing the natural ecosystems below to thrive.

The design prominently features tall, slender structural elements reminiscent of trees, creating a verticality that encourages air circulation. This approach is vital in urban settings where rising temperatures and increasing humidity are common concerns. By lifting the architecture off the ground, the project minimizes its footprint, thereby reducing land usage and impacting the surrounding environment less harshly. The unified design incorporates a lattice canopy that acts both as a protective element against the elements and a natural habitat supporting local wildlife. This thoughtful integration emphasizes the project's commitment to ecological wellness.

The materials selected for construction are crucial to the project’s integrity and environmental goals. Utilizing sustainable wood sources, biodegradable composites, and recycled components demonstrates a progressive approach to resource management in architecture. The concrete foundations provide stability, whereas the steel framework and glass elements offer transparency, ensuring that the surroundings are continually visible and accessible. Notably, the incorporation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems further reinforces the project's sustainability aspirations, establishing it as a self-sufficient structure.

An important aspect of the design is its engagement with the local community and cultural identity. The architectural decisions made throughout the project echo local traditions and practices, making it a reflection of Palangkaraya's heritage. By creating communal spaces that promote social interaction, the design expresses a belief in the importance of community cohesion, ensuring that this architecture is not only a living space but also a platform for communal growth and interaction.

What sets this architectural project apart is its dual focus on biodiversity and human habitation. While many urban designs prioritize human convenience, "The Lost Lighthouse in the City" acknowledges the need for a balanced coexistence between urban areas and natural ecosystems. This unique design approach fosters an environment where residents can engage with wildlife and nature, enhancing their quality of life and appreciation for the environment.

In summary, "The Lost Lighthouse in the City" is an architectural project that thoughtfully considers its environmental and social impacts. Its innovative design elements, material selection, and engagement with community values create a comprehensive living space that promotes sustainability and ecological well-being. For those interested in understanding this project in greater detail, including its architectural plans, sections, and designs, exploring its full presentation will provide invaluable insights into these architectural ideas and their implementation in a modern urban context.
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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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