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Flexible Living Spaces with Cross-Laminated Wood and Utility-Driven Design

Author:
Miha Rijavec
Flexible Living Spaces with Cross-Laminated Wood and Utility-Driven Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated wood elements, this flexible housing solution features a modular layout centered around utility points, providing adaptable living spaces for diverse urban residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with cross-laminated wood elements for sustainability.
02
Integrates modular layouts that accommodate changing resident needs.
03
Features a grid system that allows rapid on-site assembly.
04
Utilizes utility points for efficient plumbing and mechanical access.
05
Offers various apartment configurations to support diverse living arrangements.

The Green Puzzle is a thoughtful solution aimed at affordable housing in Toronto. It exists in a city where the need for better living options is growing. The design incorporates a modular approach, allowing it to cater to individuals, couples, and families. A notable feature is its grid structure made from cross-laminated elements, which emphasizes flexibility and effective space use.

Modular Construction

The design employs a grid system of cross-laminated structural elements. This method supports the quick assembly of housing units. By removing traditional corridors, the layout creates a spacious and open environment within each apartment. Such an arrangement not only maximizes usable space but also makes the homes feel larger and more inviting.

Spatial Organization

Each unit centers around fixed utility points, such as kitchens and bathrooms, which streamline plumbing and mechanical setups. This design enhances the functionality of the apartments. The modular nature allows for different living arrangements to be easily created, accommodating changing needs over time. This adaptability makes it practical for a diverse range of residents.

Sustainability Features

Wood is the primary material used in the Green Puzzle. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and responsible building practices. Using wood reduces the environmental impact associated with construction. Additionally, its capacity for prefabrication speeds up the building process. This aligns with current goals for environmentally friendly development.

Design Diversity

The structure's design allows for various apartment configurations, serving single individuals, couples, or larger families. The flexibility enables larger apartments to be divided or smaller units combined, responding to the dynamic needs of urban living. This thoughtful approach fosters community, offering varied living options within a single project.

The Green Puzzle merges modular design and sustainability in a way that addresses contemporary housing needs. The result is a functional living space that adapts to the changing lifestyles of its residents while promoting an efficient and environmentally aware approach to urban living.

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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

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