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Seamless Integration of Natural Stone and Cross-Laminated Timber in Urban Park Design

Authors:
Massimo Contini, Simone Mirabella, Maura Pagani
Seamless Integration of Natural Stone and Cross-Laminated Timber in Urban Park Design

Project in-detail

Integrating cross-laminated timber and natural stone, the design creates a dynamic urban park that merges subterranean exploration with vibrant public spaces for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates subterranean spaces with surface landscapes to enhance visitor experience.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and environmental sustainability.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic integration with nature.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light in underground areas.
05
Employs native plant species throughout to support local biodiversity and ecological resilience.

### Project Overview

Located within the Cao Urban Jungle, the "Upside Down" architectural design project addresses the increasing demand for multifunctional public spaces in urban environments. Its intention is to redefine recreational areas by merging both horizontal and vertical experiences, effectively integrating natural elements into the urban fabric. By emphasizing biodiversity and ecological sustainability, the project seeks to create a more harmonious interaction between urban life and nature.

### Spatial Interaction: Layering Experiences

The design strategy focuses on enhancing connections between underground and surface landscapes, promoting a cohesive public realm that encourages visitor interaction. The architectural features are intended to facilitate a smooth transition between varied environments, enriching the experience of users as they navigate different layers. Important to this approach is the creation of underground spaces that provide a sanctuary-like atmosphere, enhancing the exploratory experience while minimizing disruption to existing ecosystems.

### Material Choice and Sustainability

The selection of materials in the "Upside Down" project plays a critical role in balancing structural integrity with aesthetic appeal. Key components include natural stone for cave-like structures, reinforced concrete for durability, and sustainably sourced wood for natural aesthetics. Glass elements are integrated to maximize natural light in underground areas, while permeable surfaces are designed to promote water absorption and reduce runoff. The focus on particular native plant species enriches both the surface and underground environments, fostering biodiversity and creating a sensory connection between users and the natural world.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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