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Vertical Gardening Within a Cross-Laminated Timber Home

Author:
Alessandra Brizzolari
Vertical Gardening Within a Cross-Laminated Timber Home
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Constructed from cross-laminated timber, this compact residence integrates vertical gardening systems and multifunctional spaces to promote sustainable living while providing essential housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely of cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates a hydroponic gardening system for food production.
03
Features multifunctional furniture to optimize living space.
04
Designed to adapt between living and sleeping areas as needed.
05
Includes a dedicated area for exercise and outdoor activities.

The MICRO HOUSE offers a practical solution to affordable housing needs, particularly important in the context of recent global health crises. It emphasizes simple, efficient living without losing comfort. The design is adaptable, making it suitable for both urban and rural settings while focusing on self-sufficiency.

Internal Configuration

Inside, the MICRO HOUSE maintains an organized layout to make the best use of available space. A central service block plays a crucial role in connecting the living area with the sleeping quarters. The living space can serve multiple purposes; it can easily change into a second bedroom when necessary. Features include a sofa that converts into a bed, ample storage options, and a multifunctional bench that acts as both a table and additional seating. This arrangement allows residents to adjust the space based on their immediate needs, which can vary during changing circumstances.



Functional Areas

The bedroom area includes a folding bed, which helps keep the room open for other uses during the day. Both the kitchen and bathroom are compact yet equipped with essential amenities, ensuring everything needed for daily life is within reach. Their design allows for easy access from either living or sleeping spaces, helping residents navigate their home comfortably.



Sustainable Exterior

The exterior layout prioritizes outdoor engagement and sustainable practices. Spaces for exercise and gardening are thoughtfully included, encouraging occupants to stay active and connected to nature. A drawer built into the outdoor decking simplifies storage for a bike roller system, promoting an active lifestyle. The exterior wall also features a hydroponic garden, supporting urban farming practices. This element highlights a commitment to sustainable living, allowing residents to grow their own fresh produce.



Material Selection

The choice of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for construction is notable. This material is light, making assembly and transport manageable. It also contributes positively to the building's energy efficiency. By choosing CLT, the design aligns with eco-friendly goals, emphasizing a responsible approach to modern housing.



The careful blend of functional spaces and effective design features in the MICRO HOUSE exemplifies a thoughtful response to today’s housing challenges. Practical elements like the adaptable living area and integrated gardening system create a home that meets diverse needs while remaining sustainable.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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