Timber & Transit
T-Line
First Place, CTBUH 2024 Mass Timber Student Design Competition, Summer 2024
In collaboration with Lesley Jixuan Li, Luyan Li, Yingxi Dong
Our project harnesses mass timber and transit-oriented design to address the urgent need for affordable housing in the Bronx, NY. Located within the M1-1 rezoned area, bordered by Eastchester Road, Morris Park Avenue, and Bassett Avenue, our design transforms an underutilized industrial lot into a vibrant community hub. The ground floor features a train station and local commerce, integrating seamlessly with the future Metro-North Line to promote sustainable living. The use of prefabricated 5-ply CLT slabs and mass timber enhances construction efficiency and environmental benefits. With amenities like running tracks and climbing walls, the project fosters equitable access to an active and socially sustainable lifestyle.
T-Line
First Place, CTBUH 2024 Mass Timber Student Design Competition, Summer 2024
In collaboration with Lesley Jixuan Li, Luyan Li, Yingxi Dong
Our project harnesses mass timber and transit-oriented design to address the urgent need for affordable housing in the Bronx, NY. Located within the M1-1 rezoned area, bordered by Eastchester Road, Morris Park Avenue, and Bassett Avenue, our design transforms an underutilized industrial lot into a vibrant community hub. The ground floor features a train station and local commerce, integrating seamlessly with the future Metro-North Line to promote sustainable living. The use of prefabricated 5-ply CLT slabs and mass timber enhances construction efficiency and environmental benefits. With amenities like running tracks and climbing walls, the project fosters equitable access to an active and socially sustainable lifestyle.
︎︎︎Site conditions
Sustainability and Housing Strategies
Our design features seven multi-storied mass timber buildings arranged in a single-corridor layout, optimized for efficiency and interaction. Utilizing mass timber with 5-ply CLT prefabricated slabs, columns, and beams within a 12’ post-beam-panel grid system, the design supports structural integrity while reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency. Green roofs further our commitment to environmental stewardship. Located near the future Metro-North Line, the development promotes public transit use and minimizes car reliance, setting a new standard for sustainable, low-carbon development.
The design encompasses 286 units within a total GFA of 716,770 SF, offering affordable and modern living spaces. Each unit benefits from thoughtful design that includes ample natural light, efficient layouts, and access to green spaces. The integration of shared wet walls reduces construction waste and improves building efficiency by optimizing resource use. Shared facilities and communal spaces such as bike storage, climbing walls, and running paths are designed to foster a sense of community and support social sustainability. This approach ensures that residents enjoy a high quality of life within a framework that supports both environmental and social well-being.
︎︎︎ Master Plan, Unit
︎︎︎ Wood defines the grid system, enabling standardized and expedited construction
︎︎︎ Angled balcony adds visual interest and creates shadow variations on the facade.
︎︎︎ Unit types and stacking strategies
Exposed wood structure bring natures into bedrooms
Corridor windows allow cross-ventilation and direct sunlight
︎︎︎ Multifunction corridor encourages healthy lifestyle just steps from home