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Vertical Community Built with Cross-Laminated Timber and Integrated Green Spaces

Author:
jerome liu
Vertical Community Built with Cross-Laminated Timber and Integrated Green Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and integrating expansive green spaces, the design maximizes both ecological benefits and community interaction while providing efficient urban housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes elevated green spaces that promote biodiversity and resident interaction.
05
Employs modular living units that allow for flexible spatial configurations.

### Project Overview
The Pixel Building is designed to address urban living challenges in high-density environments, exemplified by cities similar to Hong Kong. Located in a densely populated area, the project seeks to enhance comfort and ecological sustainability while integrating green spaces into residential functionality. The concept focuses on establishing a vertical community that combines communal and private activities, integrating natural elements with urban architecture.

### Modular Living and Spatial Flexibility
The design employs a modular approach, characterized by individual "pixel blocks," each comprising a compact 27-square-meter living unit complemented by a 9-square-meter terrace. This layout supports the coexistence of multiple functions, including living, working, and sleeping, within a limited footprint. The flexible spatial organization allows residents to adapt their living space to meet daily needs, with areas that can easily transition from workspaces to sleeping quarters, addressing the constraints typical of metropolitan life.

### Material Selection and Greenery Integration
Construction materials have been deliberately chosen to align with the project’s sustainability objectives. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing durability, while extensive glass façades facilitate natural light and offer expansive views. Wood features prominently in flooring and interiors, contributing warmth and a natural aesthetic. Additionally, approximately 25% of the building's surfaces are dedicated to gardens and green spaces, promoting biodiversity, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall well-being of residents.

The building incorporates several features that foster community interaction and engagement. Communal spaces interspersed with gardens encourage socialization, addressing the isolation often experienced in high-density living. Elevated green walkways provide pathways for exploration and interaction with nature while also serving essential circulation functions. Furthermore, bicycle parking facilities are integrated into the design to promote sustainable transportation options.

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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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