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Sail-Inspired Structure With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Along The Yangtze River

Authors:
Jiaju Li, Yang Ji
Sail-Inspired Structure With Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Along The Yangtze River

Project in-detail

The sail-inspired, cantilevered structure utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to create a visual and spatial connection with the Yangtze River, serving as a multifunctional community space that encourages interaction and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sail-inspired design enhances visual harmony with the riverscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles add fire resistance and tactile quality.
04
Cantilevered sections maximize river views and minimize land footprint.
05
Integrated green roof features promote biodiversity and urban greening.

## Project Overview

Located adjacent to the Yangtze River Harbor, the Tower of Sails is a contemporary architectural endeavor that integrates cultural, environmental, and functional elements. The design aims to address both urban dynamics and natural landscape, reflecting the historical significance of the area while creating a modern space for community engagement.

## Spatial Strategy

The design concept, themed "The Spirit of Water," provides a framework for interaction between visitors and the riverside. Central to the project is the Sail Tower, which draws inspiration from maritime forms, creating a structure that acts as both a visual landmark and a functional hub. The Bridge Tower structure enhances vertical connectivity, promoting a dynamic experience as visitors navigate through interconnected spaces. Careful attention to spatial flow mirrors the natural movement of the river, facilitating an intuitive journey through various levels and functions.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a selection of innovative materials optimized for both aesthetic impact and structural durability. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, enabling complex geometric forms, while extensive use of glass ensures transparency, enriching natural light and visual continuity. A steel framework provides strength and flexibility, particularly in cantilevered sections, while timber elements introduce warmth in leisure spaces. To emphasize sustainability, features such as solar panels and rainwater collection systems are integrated, aligning with contemporary ecological practices.

## Public Interfaces and Environmental Integration

Viewing platforms are strategically positioned to offer panoramic vistas of the river and surrounding landscapes, enhancing the connection between architecture and nature. A rooftop garden provides a green retreat within the urban environment, contributing to biodiversity and public enjoyment. Spaces designated for community gatherings and exhibitions promote social interaction, while design motifs reminiscent of local cultural symbols encourage a dialogue between the structure and its historical context. The Bridge Tower concept facilitates visibility and accessibility, bridging indoor and outdoor spaces to engage visitors with the landscape actively.

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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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