Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Elevated Living with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Green Roofs Above Urban Infrastructure

Authors:
Holly Davidson, Szymon Smyk, Cameron Edwards
Elevated Living with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Green Roofs Above Urban Infrastructure

Project in-detail

Elevated above Berlin's bustling motorways, the design seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber panels and green roofs, transforming underutilized infrastructure into a vibrant community of affordable housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated housing structure developed above existing motorways in Berlin.
02
Incorporation of cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability and rapid assembly.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Integration of green roofs to promote urban biodiversity and energy efficiency.
05
Design includes communal terraces that foster resident interaction and community engagement.
The architectural project revolves around an innovative approach to urban housing by repurposing underutilized infrastructure in Berlin. This design addresses the critical issue of affordable housing, utilizing elevated motorways as a foundation for new residential units. The project represents a significant step towards transforming neglected urban spaces into livable environments, bridging gaps both literally and figuratively within the city’s fabric.

The primary function of this design is to provide accessible housing that accommodates the growing population in Berlin. By elevating living spaces above roadways, the project leverages airspace that is often overlooked, allowing residents to enjoy livable environments while maintaining connectivity to the surrounding areas. This architecture does not merely create housing; it fosters a renewed sense of community and interaction among residents, breaking down existing barriers created by the motorways.

Important elements of the project include a series of pre-fabricated residential units that are designed for efficient assembly and sustainability. These units are supported by robust bridge trusses that ensure structural integrity while minimizing the footprint on the ground below. The use of lightweight materials allows for rapid construction, which is crucial in addressing the urgent demand for housing without compromising safety or quality.

Incorporating wooden decking for external walkways and shared terraces enhances both functionality and quality of life for the residents. These communal spaces invite social engagement and outdoor activities, promoting a vibrant community atmosphere. Large glass panels in each unit facilitate natural light, creating bright, welcoming interiors and offering occupants unobstructed views of the surrounding urban landscape. The project thoughtfully integrates greenery through expansive green roofs and vertical gardens, contributing to environmental sustainability and urban biodiversity.

Unique design approaches characterize this project, particularly its focus on social connectivity and ecological consideration. By using prefabrication techniques, the architecture allows for flexibility in design while enabling streamlined construction processes. The positioning of shared spaces encourages interaction, which is essential in urban settings where residents might otherwise feel disconnected. Additionally, the integration of vegetation serves not only aesthetic purposes but also contributes to improved air quality and the thermal performance of the buildings.

The architectural plans and sections reveal meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element is constructed with purpose. The layout, while compact, maximizes living space efficiency, balancing personal privacy with communal accessibility. The overall design emphasizes cohesion within the community, inviting residents to engage with their environment constructively.

This project stands as a thoughtful response to the challenges urban environments face today. The emphasis on utilizing existing infrastructure for residential purposes highlights the potential of innovative architectural ideas that prioritize both human needs and ecological impact. This development has the potential to serve as a model for similar urban initiatives worldwide.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the project, it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs in detail. These elements can provide a fuller understanding of the design philosophy, functional strategies, and community-centric ideas that underpin this significant architectural endeavor.
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 16544 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