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Sustainable Living Achieved Through Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Shingle Facades

Authors:
Collin Thome, Ashley Tillett, Adam Baur, Hunter Swope
Sustainable Living Achieved Through Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Shingle Facades

Project in-detail

With its striking use of cross-laminated timber and charred shingles, this urban housing development redefines sustainable living by seamlessly integrating green design principles while providing functional and affordable residences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural stability and reduced carbon footprint.
02
Features charred wooden shingles, providing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates extensive green roofs to mitigate urban heat and promote biodiversity.
04
Designed with modular construction techniques for efficient assembly and minimal waste.
05
Integrates social spaces to foster community engagement and interaction among residents.
Franklin Woods is an architectural project situated in the vibrant urban fabric of San Francisco, specifically at 98 & 101 Franklin Ave. This project represents a forward-thinking approach to urban housing, responding to pressing issues of affordability and sustainability while fostering community engagement. Designed primarily as an affordable housing solution, Franklin Woods aims to address the housing needs of a diverse population, creating a welcoming environment for families, individuals, and various community demographics.

The function of Franklin Woods extends beyond mere shelter. It serves as a model for integrating urban living with natural surroundings, emphasizing the importance of ecological responsibility in architectural design. By incorporating extensive green spaces, including gardens and green roofs, the project seeks to blend the built environment with nature, enhancing the living experience for its residents while mitigating urban heat effects.

A key aspect of the architectural design is the use of engineered wood, particularly cross-laminated timber. This material is not only structurally robust and aesthetically pleasing, but it also contributes to the project's sustainability goals. The façade is characterized by a warm palette, with generous use of glass which allows natural light to flood the interiors. This thoughtful approach to material selection promotes energy efficiency and creates a bright, inviting atmosphere throughout the living spaces.

Significant attention has been given to communal areas within Franklin Woods. These spaces are thoughtfully distributed throughout the project, providing residents with the opportunity to engage with one another and build a sense of community. Outdoor patios, seating arrangements, and vertical gardens encourage social interactions and enhance the overall livability of the project. These design elements reflect a commitment to creating not just a building, but a thriving community hub where connections can flourish.

The site itself has been strategically analyzed for its potential, ensuring that the design responds effectively to its urban context. The location within San Francisco grants residents easy access to public transportation, nearby healthcare facilities, and educational institutions, reinforcing the importance of accessibility in urban planning. These considerations are critical in maximizing the project's utility and integrating it cohesively into the surrounding neighborhood.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout Franklin Woods. The incorporation of modular construction techniques allows for flexible design solutions that can adapt to various urban environments, effectively addressing housing needs without increasing costs significantly. By streamlining the construction process, the project minimizes material waste and promotes efficiency, aligning with modern sustainability standards.

Moreover, the careful integration of landscape features throughout the development encourages ecological benefits and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the architecture. The design of Franklin Woods illustrates a conscientious effort to not only provide residences but also to enrich the overall community fabric, fostering an environment where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously.

The architectural vision of Franklin Woods stands as an important contribution to contemporary discussions around urban living. By prioritizing affordable housing, sustainability, and community connectivity, this project represents a deliberate and thoughtful approach to modern architectural design. For those interested in exploring the depths of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, and various design ideas, further investigation into the project presentation will provide valuable insights into the innovative concepts at play.
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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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