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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Contemporary Community Hub

Authors:
Steven Wells, John Collamore, Lexi Glass, Marquis Brown
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Contemporary Community Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a functional community hub that harmonizes with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles provides enhanced durability and resistance to the elements.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were selected for their sustainability and structural efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, optimizing natural light intake.
04
The project incorporates a green roof that supports biodiversity and stormwater management.
05
Community gathering spaces are strategically placed to encourage social interaction among users.
This architectural project is a thoughtfully designed structure that integrates seamlessly into its surrounding environment while fulfilling its intended function with clarity and purpose. The design reflects a balance between aesthetics and practicality, showcasing a commitment to sustainable practices and the use of high-quality materials that enhance both the visual appeal and longevity of the building.

The project serves as a multifaceted space, accommodating various activities that engage the community and promote interaction among users. Its layout is driven by an understanding of flow and accessibility, ensuring that spaces are intuitively navigable. The arrangement of rooms and common areas prioritizes light and air circulation, contributing to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. This design approach not only fulfills the immediate functional requirements but also cultivates a sense of belonging among its users, further emphasizing the project's role as a community hub.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this architectural design. The careful selection of materials reflects a contemporary sensibility while respecting the local context. Concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced wood have been integrated into the design, each chosen for its functional properties as well as its aesthetic complementarities. The concrete facade offers durability and resistance to weathering, while expansive glass panels allow natural light to flood the interior, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. The incorporation of wood elements adds warmth and texture, creating an inviting environment that enhances user experience.

The unique aspect of this project lies in its innovative use of space. Distinctive architectural ideas, such as the incorporation of green roofs and living walls, not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also provide a visually dynamic aspect to the structure. Such features promote biodiversity and help manage rainwater, reflecting a growing trend in architecture that prioritizes ecological responsibility. The integration of outdoor terraces and communal gardens further extends the usable space, encouraging outdoor activities and fostering a connection to nature.

In terms of architectural design, attention has been given to creating a cohesive visual narrative throughout the project. The design elements are harmoniously aligned, providing a sense of unity while still allowing for individual spaces to shine. This thoughtful consideration of form and function is evident in the architectural sections and plans, which illustrate a clear understanding of the spatial dynamics at play. Each space has been meticulously designed to serve specific purposes while maintaining an open and airy feel, making it an adaptive environment suitable for various uses.

Furthermore, the consideration of sustainability extends beyond material choices and environmental features. The building has been designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing smart building technologies to reduce its carbon footprint. This commitment to intelligent design reflects an awareness of contemporary architectural practices that are essential for promoting a healthier planet.

The project encapsulates a modern architectural ethos that combines functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. By addressing the needs of its users and the environment, this design stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to enhance everyday life while being responsive to the greater ecological context. Those interested in exploring the intricacies of this design are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal the thought process and meticulous planning underlying this impressive architectural endeavor. This exploration will provide further insights into the innovative ideas and methodologies that defined this project, showcasing the collaborative effort that births such compelling architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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