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Elevated Public Green Spaces with Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Fiber Insulation

Authors:
Sara Di valerio, Giacomo Fontanive, Gregorio Gottardo
Elevated Public Green Spaces with Cross-Laminated Timber and Natural Fiber Insulation

Project in-detail

An elevated street in the sky integrates public green spaces with cross-laminated timber construction and natural fiber insulation to create a cohesive mixed-use development that prioritizes community engagement and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Revamped existing building with a façade removal to enhance functionality.
02
Incorporates an urban greenhouse to promote biodiversity within the community.
03
Features cross-laminated timber for sustainable structural support.
04
Includes accessible apartments to cater to diverse living needs.
05
Designed with an elevated street in the sky for improved pedestrian access.

The design focuses on urban development within a lively city landscape, aiming to bring together various functions such as living, working, and socializing. Set within a densely populated area, the project emphasizes the importance of community while considering the need for sustainability. By reworking an existing building, it fosters a connection between modern architectural needs and the historical context of the site.

Urban Integration

Significant changes to the existing building begin with a planned façade removal. This allows for a refresh of the structure's appearance, optimizing both visual appeal and functionality. The introduction of a “street in the sky” concept permits pedestrian circulation above ground level, creating a new layer of accessibility. This elevated space functions as a connector, enhancing interactions between different areas of the development.

Sustainability and Green Spaces

A core feature of the design is the integration of an urban greenhouse. This design element promotes sustainability by introducing green spaces into the city environment. The greenhouse serves not only as a plant habitat but also as a place for residents to gather and connect with nature. This feature encourages both environmental awareness and a sense of community, allowing residents to appreciate the natural world in an urban setting.

Community-Centric Design

The project actively enhances social dynamics by incorporating a variety of amenities such as cafés and gardens. These public spaces help facilitate interaction among residents, creating opportunities for shared experiences. By prioritizing communal areas, the design addresses the sometimes isolating nature of urban living, aiming to cultivate stronger relationships within the community.

Diverse Living Solutions

With a focus on accommodating various household needs, the design includes residential units intended for individuals and families of different sizes. This range accommodates one to five occupants, reflecting modern living arrangements. Furthermore, the inclusion of accessible apartments ensures that everyone can find suitable living conditions, reinforcing the project's commitment to inclusivity.

The architectural details include natural fiber insulation, enhancing energy efficiency while maintaining comfort. High-performance windows optimize light and temperature control within the spaces. The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) for structural components highlights an ecological approach to construction. Sound management also plays a role, as floating floors and walls with acoustic insulation help maintain a quiet environment, allowing residents to enjoy their living spaces.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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