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Residential Development Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Above Urban Infrastructure

Authors:
Alfredo Chavez romero, Aldo Sicilia villamil, Edward Meyers, Andrew Friedenberg
Residential Development Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Above Urban Infrastructure

Project in-detail

This residential development creatively utilizes cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles to offer innovative living spaces above railway infrastructure, fostering community connections while enhancing urban density in a thoughtful and sustainable manner.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project utilizes cross-laminated timber not only for structural integrity but also to enhance thermal insulation and reduce energy consumption.
02
Charred wood shingles are employed as a sustainable cladding option, offering both durability and a unique aesthetic that complements urban surroundings.
03
The design incorporates elevated living units that maximize air circulation and natural light while minimizing the building's footprint on the ground level.
04
Integrated public spaces seamlessly connect with the residential areas, promoting community interaction and outdoor activities within the urban landscape.
05
Advanced robotic fabrication techniques are utilized for precision in constructing modular components, significantly reducing construction waste and time.
This architectural project is rooted in addressing the pressing housing needs within urban environments, with a particular focus on London's context, where housing scarcity and high commuter times pose significant challenges. The project depicts a thoughtfully designed solution that integrates living spaces into existing urban frameworks, specifically utilizing areas above railway infrastructures. This approach not only makes efficient use of space but also promotes a new kind of urban living that prioritizes community and connectivity.

The design represents a harmonious blend of modernity and contextual sensitivity. By raising living units above ground level, the project affords residents improved accessibility and views, while also creating a vibrant public realm below. The innovative spatial organization serves dual purposes: it provides residents with private, comfortable living spaces while fostering social interaction and community engagement through shared amenities and green areas.

In terms of functionality, the project is envisioned to offer housing for a substantial number of residents, estimated to accommodate over 250,000. Each dwelling is meticulously designed to maximize space efficiency and ensure that occupants experience a sense of privacy alongside community interaction. Layouts are flexible, allowing for various configurations that adapt to different family sizes or living arrangements. This focus on flexibility is essential in urban environments where needs often change over time.

The architectural details convey a sophisticated understanding of materiality and structure. The primary materials used include Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), which provides both strength and warmth, while aluminum profiles and glass facilitate durable yet transparent facades that connect the indoors with the surrounding urban landscape. Structural steel enhances the overall integrity of the design, enabling complex and dynamic forms that enrich the spatial experience without overwhelming the urban setting.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its approach to the public realm. It incorporates shared green spaces and communal facilities that invite public use and interaction, counteracting the isolating tendencies that urban living can sometimes impose. These spaces are crucial in fostering a sense of community, providing venues for leisure and social activities.

Moreover, the project leverages advanced fabrication techniques that underscore its innovative approach. Robotic automation and prefabrication in a dedicated warehouse ensure precision and efficiency during construction. This not only reduces material waste but also accelerates the overall building process, making it a practical model for future developments.

Through its integration of complex forms, sustainable materials, and a deep focus on communal life, the project not only meets the immediate residential needs of a growing population but also champions a new model for urban living. The architectural ideas presented here push traditional boundaries, merging architecture with modern technology to create an enduring impact on the urban landscape.

For those interested in further exploring this project, a closer review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will unveil the depth of thought and consideration behind each element of the design. Engaging with these details offers valuable insights into how architecture can respond to contemporary challenges while enhancing the quality of urban life.
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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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