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Flexible Tambour Structure with Bulk Wool Insulation for Urban Nomadic Living

Authors:
Bernadette Balatbat, Esther Liem, Harita Tahir
Flexible Tambour Structure with Bulk Wool Insulation for Urban Nomadic Living
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The innovative use of tambour walls and bulk wool insulation creates a flexible living space that meets the needs of urban nomads while addressing the challenges of extreme cold in Mongolia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible tambour walls allow dynamic adjustments to interior layouts.
02
Utilizes bulk wool insulation for enhanced thermal performance in cold climates.
03
Open porch design promotes community interaction among residents.
04
Emphasizes sustainable materials that respect local cultural traditions.
05
Orientation maximizes solar gain for passive heating throughout winter.

The Nomadic Home stands in the heart of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, where the city grapples with severe air pollution. This dwelling brings together the essence of traditional nomadic living with the requirements of modern urban life. It serves as a versatile living space designed for those making the move from rural to city environments, focusing on comfort, sustainability, and a sense of community.

Multifunctional Layout

The ground floor features a practical layout with designated areas for storage, living, dining, and cooking. This arrangement encourages a blend of private and communal activities. Residents can easily engage with one another while managing daily tasks. The first-floor bedroom offers a private area for rest. This setup balances the need for personal space and communal interaction.

Tambour Flexibility

A key element in the design is the tambour structure, which enhances the home's adaptability. These walls and sliding components allow for easy adjustments to the interior layout as occupants' needs change. This approach not only improves how residents use the space but also respects the traditional form of the yurt, linking the new design to cultural roots.

Sustainable Material Selection

Material choices play an important role in the home's performance. The design incorporates 45mm tambour slats that provide both structure and aesthetic appeal. A water-resistant layer, bulk wool insulation, and polycarbonate materials work together to create a climate-responsive envelope. These features help maintain warmth during Mongolia's long, cold winters while promoting energy efficiency.

Community-Centric Features

The inclusion of an open porch area enhances social interactions among residents, breaking down barriers that can lead to isolation in urban settings. This space allows neighbors to come together, fostering a sense of belonging. Such a communal aspect reflects the traditional practice of sharing living spaces in nomadic cultures.

The design finishes with tambour slats that rise effortlessly along integrated tongues, creating a space that can adapt easily. This feature captures the spirit of traditional nomadic architecture, making it relevant for contemporary life while ensuring flexibility for its occupants.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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