Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Repurposed Larch Wood and Fiber Cement Community Housing with Integrated Commercial Spaces

Authors:
Jiang Hong Dai, Mei Hui Pan
Repurposed Larch Wood and Fiber Cement Community Housing with Integrated Commercial Spaces
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed from repurposed larch wood and fiber cement, the design integrates commercial spaces at ground level with modular housing units above, promoting community interaction in a sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed building waste is used throughout the construction.
02
The project features a modular design inspired by Tetris for adaptability.
03
A dedicated commercial area enhances community interaction and accessibility.
04
Flexible unit sizes cater to various income levels and household types.
05
Strategic placement near public transit promotes sustainable mobility options.

The design located in San Francisco addresses the urgent issue of housing shortages through a sustainable, modular approach. It focuses on repurposing building waste to create functional living spaces, aligning with the city's goal of achieving "zero waste." The project delivers various housing options for low to mid-income residents while promoting community involvement through its innovative design.

Modular Assembly Approach

The design utilizes a modular assembly system that offers one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom configurations. This flexibility allows residents to select living options tailored to their needs, promoting affordability. By allowing collaboration, residents in larger units can connect with those in smaller units to obtain below-market pricing, fostering a sense of community.

Integration of Public Spaces

Public and mixed-use areas play a vital role in the design, with a commercial section on the ground floor featuring cafes and shops. This integration strengthens the connection between living spaces and the local economy. It encourages residents from different income levels to engage with one another, helping to bridge social divides and create a more inclusive environment.

Access and Sustainability

The site is strategically located near public transportation options, including bus and subway stations, which encourages sustainable commuting. Additionally, it connects to a bicycle network, further supporting green transportation. The design also incorporates passive strategies to enhance energy efficiency and create comfortable living spaces. The open-plan layout on the ground floor promotes interaction among residents and visitors.

Material Strategy

Materials play an essential role in the overall design. Larch wood as the exterior wall, fiber cement board, and wool insulation are chosen carefully to ensure durability and performance. The inclusion of drainage cavities and air control systems further enhances the building’s efficiency. These material selections aim to balance aesthetic qualities with environmental responsibility.

The thoughtful design features outdoor spaces that invite interaction, creating areas for community gathering, learning, and socializing. This integration of public and private elements encourages residents to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy