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Modular Living With Cross-Laminated Timber in Corner Lots

Author:
Sunghwan Um
Modular Living With Cross-Laminated Timber in Corner Lots

Project in-detail

Modular units constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber create flexible living spaces in South Los Angeles, designed to adapt as community gathering spots or Accessory Dwelling Units.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units can be combined to create varied configurations tailored to community needs.
02
Cross-Laminated Timber is used as the primary structural material for its eco-friendliness and strength.
03
Design incorporates shared green spaces that encourage community interaction and well-being.
04
Vertical circulation elements are integrated within shared areas to maximize accessibility.
05
The project operates in corner lots, leveraging their potential as community gathering points.

The project focuses on modular prototypes designed to meet housing needs in South Los Angeles, especially in corner lots. These structures can function as community spaces or Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on individual properties. By highlighting the significance of corner conditions, the design encourages interaction within the community and promotes a flexible approach to living arrangements.

Modular Design Approach

At the heart of the concept is a modular assembly system that allows units to be combined in various ways. This adaptability responds to changing housing demands and can also accommodate additional functions, such as market spaces. The design incorporates a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) megastructure that serves as the foundation for these units, creating an organized and practical framework suitable for urban life.

Spatial Distribution and Circulation

The design carefully organizes spaces into private, semi-private, and shared areas. This layout encourages community engagement while protecting individual privacy. Vertical circulation elements are placed within shared spaces for easy access, while private units remain undisturbed. Service areas, including kitchens and living spaces, are designed to facilitate movement, ensuring all residents can navigate the modules comfortably.

Integration of Green Spaces

Outdoor green spaces are a key feature, providing both private and communal areas to enhance the living environment. These gardens and parks promote social interaction and help build community ties. The presence of nature in the layout supports well-being and reflects a commitment to sustainable living.

Structural and Material Considerations

Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is central to the structure, valued for its strength and eco-friendliness. The design adheres to International Standards, ensuring the modular units are easy to scale and transport. This choice of materials strengthens the entire project, allowing it to blend functionality with a focus on community living.

The arrangement of these modular units allows for unique configurations, promoting diverse living experiences while encouraging a sense of belonging among residents. The innovative design not only addresses housing shortages but also enhances the quality of life in the community.

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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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