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Fractal Geometry With Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Wooden Shingles Enhances Urban Living

Authors:
Wieteke Nijkrake, Jorrit Noordhuizen
Fractal Geometry With Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Wooden Shingles Enhances Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed using cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the design integrates fractal geometry to create versatile living spaces that invite community interaction within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes octagonal geometry to maximize spatial efficiency and light penetration.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to improve air quality and foster biodiversity.
03
Features an intelligent circulation system separating pedestrian and vehicle pathways.
04
Incorporates biophilic elements through materials that mimic natural textures.
05
Adapts modular unit designs to accommodate diverse resident lifestyles and needs.

### Overview

"Fractal Pixels" is located in an urban context characterized by high density and a pressing need for innovative housing solutions. The intent of this project is to challenge conventional residential design, addressing common issues such as standardization and anonymity in urban living environments. By employing a distinctive architectural approach, the design aims to create functional and adaptable living spaces that encourage community interaction while promoting ecological sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy

The design utilizes an octagonal volumetric form, moving away from traditional block-and-grid layouts. This geometric approach not only facilitates efficient space utilization but also allows for flexible apartment configurations tailored to various resident preferences. The design features three distinct types of apartments—small, medium, and extended—which enhance the livability of the space by accommodating diverse lifestyle needs. Additionally, the arrangement optimizes available space for communal areas and green spaces, encouraging social connections and biodiversity within the urban setting.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Fractal Pixels prioritizes sustainability through its careful selection of materials. It incorporates local, reusable, and natural materials to reduce the environmental impact associated with construction. This approach minimizes waste and promotes recycling while enhancing indoor air quality and aesthetics. The use of biomimetic materials draws inspiration from natural systems, ensuring minimal ecological footprint and fostering a healthy living environment. Intelligent facades further support energy efficiency by improving thermal insulation and visual comfort for residents.

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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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