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Vertical Farming Integrated Within Cross-Laminated Timber Modules To Enhance Urban Living

Authors:
Anna Vylegzhanina, Natalia Kalistratova
Vertical Farming Integrated Within Cross-Laminated Timber Modules To Enhance Urban Living

Project in-detail

Nestled among modular cross-laminated timber units, the innovative design seamlessly integrates urban farming, promoting sustainable living while fostering community interaction in a vibrant metropolitan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates vertical farming spaces, allowing residents to grow food directly in their homes.
02
Each unit utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and durable weather resistance.
04
The bent A-frame structure maximizes natural light and encourages ventilation throughout the living spaces.
05
Community areas are integrated at multiple levels, fostering social interaction among residents.
The project "Moving Fields" represents an innovative response to urbanization, particularly focusing on the experiences of farmers transitioning from rural settings to urban life. This architectural endeavor aims to bridge the gap between agricultural practices and urban living, fostering a harmonious integration of these two worlds. The architecture embodies a modern interpretation of community living, where each dwelling not only functions as a home but also serves as a space for farming and social interaction.

The core concept of the "Moving Fields" project centered on creating a sustainable environment that meets the needs of individuals who maintain a connection to their agricultural roots. The design emphasizes modularity, featuring a stacked arrangement reminiscent of Jenga blocks. This layout not only maximizes the use of space but also encourages interaction among residents, reinforcing community bonds. The interplay between living, farming, and recreation comprises the project's central function, thus promoting a lifestyle that embraces both productivity and leisure.

Within this project, individual units comprise three primary modules: living, farming, and recreation. The living module is thoughtfully designed to maximize both comfort and functionality. Spacious interiors accentuate natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere while also maintaining a visual connection to the outdoor environment. Large windows and sliding glass doors invite residents to engage with their immediate surroundings, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The farming module occupies the upper levels of the design, allowing residents to cultivate crops directly from their homes. This aspect of the architecture highlights the practical integration of urban farming, offering an innovative solution to food production in densely populated areas. This vertical farming approach not only contributes to food sustainability but also reinforces the notion of self-reliance within urban lifestyles. By growing their food, residents can foster a sense of responsibility and connection to their environment.

Complementing the living and farming modules, the recreation module stands as a vital element of the design, facilitating community engagement and interaction. This public space is designed for gatherings, markets, and recreational activities, effectively creating a vibrant hub that encourages collaboration and socializing among residents. With shared amenities, the design strengthens community ties while promoting a unique sense of place.

The architectural choices throughout the "Moving Fields" project reflect a commitment to sustainability. The primary materials utilized include wood, concrete, glass, and natural vegetation. Wood serves as a fundamental structural material, renowned for its low environmental impact and aesthetic warmth. Concrete is strategically employed to provide structural integrity, ensuring durability for the urban environment. Glass elements enhance the design, allowing daylight to permeate the high-rise structure, while also promoting energy efficiency.

The unique design approach of "Moving Fields" is evident not only in its thoughtful spatial organization but also in its responsiveness to the cultural context of its residents. By encouraging a farming lifestyle within an urban setting, the architecture addresses the growing need for food security and sustainable living solutions. In doing so, it creates a model for urban development that prioritizes community, environment, and the interconnectedness of residential and agricultural practices.

As this project unfolds, it exemplifies a contemporary interpretation of living, demonstrating how architecture can transform urban spaces into productive and cohesive environments. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs that encapsulate the principles behind "Moving Fields," readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation further. This investigation will highlight the innovative ideas that informed its development and the implications for future urban architecture.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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