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Living Structures Enhanced by Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Facades in an Urban Community Setting

Author:
Rebecka Carlsson
Living Structures Enhanced by Cross-Laminated Timber and Green Facades in an Urban Community Setting

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a green facade and cross-laminated timber, this urban co-housing initiative cultivates community engagement while seamlessly integrating nature into its multi-functional living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a green facade that supports urban biodiversity by attracting local pollinators.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction minimizes the carbon footprint while enhancing structural stability.
03
Shared community kitchens and gardens foster collaboration and social interaction among residents.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide a distinct aesthetic while protecting against weathering.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light within living spaces, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting.
Biophilia Romana is an architectural project that reflects a contemporary response to urban living by emphasizing the relationship between people and nature within the context of Rome. This design initiative seeks to redefine co-housing by integrating green spaces into the urban fabric, fostering not only a sense of community among residents but also enhancing their connection to the natural environment. The project’s architecture is informed by concepts of sustainability, inclusivity, and well-being, addressing modern socio-environmental challenges associated with high-density urban areas.

The project functions as a mixed-use living space that accommodates various needs, including residential units, communal areas, and public facilities. By offering diverse living configurations, Biophilia Romana caters to a wide demographic, making living within the city accessible for families, individuals, and different lifestyle choices. The integration of community resources such as shared kitchens, gardens, and recreational spaces encourages social interaction and collaboration, reinforcing a supportive communal atmosphere.

Central to the architectural design are the various levels of the building, which are purposefully organized to maximize both utility and leisure. The street level is designed to engage passersby, featuring public amenities like a restaurant and research center that entice community members to utilize the space. These public elements create a vibrant interaction between the building's residents and the wider urban context. As one moves to the lower levels, spaces are designated for shared living, promoting collaboration among residents through communal kitchens and gardens. The upper levels transition into private apartments, where individuals can retreat into personal spaces that are still imbued with nature through balconies and terrace gardens.

A notable aspect of Biophilia Romana is its unique approach to materiality. The project incorporates cross-laminated timber (CLT), a sustainable building material that not only provides structural integrity but also reduces environmental impact due to its energy-efficient properties. The building's green facades are designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal while serving ecological functions such as air purification and thermal insulation. Moreover, the inclusion of photovoltaic panels and wind turbines underscores the project's commitment to renewable energy and self-sufficiency.

The design's ecological focus extends beyond mere aesthetics; it plays a critical role in promoting biodiversity within an urban setting. By integrating gardens and green areas throughout, the project not only provides essential habitats for various species but also improves urban resilience in the face of climate change. This attention to ecological systems signals a broader understanding of architecture that goes beyond the physical structure, recognizing the importance of ecological health in urban design.

Additionally, Biophilia Romana thoughtfully pays homage to its Roman context. The project weaves in historical architectural elements, recognizing the city's rich heritage while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modern living. The design connects with the surrounding environment, ensuring that new developments enhance rather than detract from the city’s identity.

Unique design approaches in Biophilia Romana manifest through its community-driven layout and the innovative integration of nature. These elements are not just visually appealing; they are purposefully engineered to enhance mental and emotional well-being, reflecting a holistic understanding of contemporary living needs. The project encapsulates the essence of urban ecology, where nature and human habitation coexist harmoniously.

To gain deeper insights into this remarkable architectural project, one is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas that underpin Biophilia Romana. This exploration will provide a more comprehensive understanding of how innovative design can address urban challenges while fostering community values.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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