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Timber Framework with Integrated Roof Garden Supporting Community Living

Authors:
Yang Dai, Sarah Hayes, Scott Axel, Ariel Vazquez
Timber Framework with Integrated Roof Garden Supporting Community Living

Project in-detail

The use of timber framing and a rooftop garden enhances sustainability while providing affordable housing and community spaces in a rapidly developing urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber framing minimizes carbon emissions compared to traditional materials.
02
The roof garden utilizes rainwater for irrigation and enhances biodiversity.
03
Public programs occupy the first two floors to encourage community interaction.
04
Energy star-rated appliances promote energy efficiency within the units.
05
Local businesses are integrated into the design to support the neighborhood economy.

The Grove at Hudson Yards is situated in Hell's Kitchen, NYC, designed to meet the growing need for affordable housing in an area undergoing significant changes. The project centers around the idea of linking public and private spaces. This approach encourages interaction among residents and between the community and visitors. By placing public programs on the lower floors, the design promotes engagement and helps to build connections in a neighborhood that has historically seen separation among its different populations.

Architectural Concept

The design prioritizes inclusivity by creating spaces that invite interaction. Public areas serve as gathering spots that facilitate connections among residents. This thoughtful arrangement addresses the past isolation felt by those living in subsidized housing. The aim is to foster a sense of community where different groups can meet and share experiences comfortably.

Material Selection

Timber is the primary choice for construction. Its use is significant due to its sustainability, offering a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional materials like concrete. This decision enhances the overall feel of the structure, making it more inviting. Timber contributes warmth to the living spaces, creating an atmosphere that feels connected to the neighborhood.

Sustainability Initiatives

A roof garden is included as part of the design, which serves to manage rainwater and supports landscape irrigation. This feature reflects the commitment to environmental responsibility. The garden adds greenery to the urban area, improving both aesthetics and functionality. In addition, all units are equipped with energy star-rated appliances, reinforcing the focus on energy efficiency. These aspects are vital for modern living, addressing both comfort and sustainability.

Community Integration

The design also incorporates local businesses, allowing residential and commercial areas to coexist. This integration ensures that affordable housing brings positive contributions to the area. Dedicated public and communal spaces encourage social interaction while providing a sense of privacy for residents. This balance helps create a supportive environment that meets various needs within the community.

The Grove at Hudson Yards showcases a considered approach to urban living. The thoughtful details, such as the use of timber and the presence of green spaces, enhance residents' experience. These elements work together to form a lively and inviting environment, contributing to the overall character of Hell's Kitchen.

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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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