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Timber-Frame Community Housing with Cross-Laminated Construction

Authors:
Joseph Loreto, Ramsey Leung
Timber-Frame Community Housing with Cross-Laminated Construction

Project in-detail

Constructed with prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels, this compact housing module integrates adaptable layouts and shared community spaces to address the need for affordable living in urban settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for efficiency.
02
Features adaptable floor plans to meet diverse community needs.
03
Incorporates ground floor units that serve as shared community spaces.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Preserves void spaces to respect neighborhood dynamics and urban context.

Villa Redux is located in Berlin and addresses the growing need for affordable housing in urban areas. The design focuses on creating spaces that are accessible and functional, catering to a diverse range of residents. With a compact housing module measuring 14m by 14m and rising four storeys, the project adapts to different urban settings and allows for flexible floor plans that meet specific needs.

Prefabricated Components

The project uses prefabricated components to make construction more efficient and cost-effective. A modular core includes essential services like MEP conduits, bathrooms, and kitchens, allowing for quicker assembly on-site. This approach minimizes downtime and enables the building to be occupied sooner, while maintaining structural integrity.

Material System

Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels are chosen for the interior floors and partitions. This sustainable material contributes to a lower carbon footprint by using timber sourced responsibly. The exterior walls are constructed from prefabricated timber-frame panels, combining durability with an appealing aesthetic. These materials help reduce energy usage, thus aligning with current sustainability practices.

Community Integration

The design prioritizes communal areas that enhance interaction among residents. Ground floor units have flexible uses, serving as shared spaces, nurseries, or retail shops. This variety encourages economic activity and builds a sense of community within the neighborhood. The functions of these spaces contribute to the overall usefulness of the building, making it a vital part of its surroundings.

Spatial Efficiency

Efficiency in space usage is a central aspect of Villa Redux. It minimizes circulation areas while allowing for barrier-free access in the ground units. This thoughtful arrangement optimizes usability and keeps the connection between the building and its environment strong. The design also considers the need for void spaces that respect the existing neighborhood, allowing the new structure to blend in while adding value to the area.

The roof features shared green spaces for residents to enjoy. These areas promote outdoor activity and foster a sense of community while enhancing the visual quality of the building. Integrating nature within an urban setting contributes positively to both the residents' wellbeing and the local ecosystem.

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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
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