Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Author:
Krishna Rao
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

With its unique use of charred wooden shingles and a dynamic green roof, this space embodies a harmonious blend of sustainability and community engagement, offering a versatile hub for social interaction and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability while providing a distinctive visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized for both structural integrity and sustainable building practices.
03
A dynamic green roof design promotes biodiversity and helps manage stormwater runoff effectively.
04
The bent A-frame structure maximizes interior space while allowing for significant natural light penetration.
05
Community-centered features include adaptable gathering spaces that encourage social interaction and engagement.
The project at hand represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, emphasizing a harmonious integration between built form and the natural environment. It serves as both a functional space and a representation of modern design principles, showcasing how architecture can respond to the surrounding context while addressing the needs of its users. The primary function of the project is to provide a versatile environment that facilitates both social interaction and individual reflection. Central to its design are elements that encourage community engagement while also offering quiet spaces for retreat, highlighting the duality often found in urban architectural projects.

Upon entering the space, one is greeted by an open layout, designed to foster a sense of welcome and fluidity. The careful arrangement of interior elements facilitates movement and interaction, with sightlines that draw visitors through the space and encourage exploration. Natural light plays a key role in the overall atmosphere, with strategically placed windows that allow sunlight to filter through, enhancing the tactile qualities of the materials used throughout the design. This interaction between light and structure is intentional, creating a dynamic environment that changes throughout the day.

The materiality of the project is remarkable and thoughtfully considered. Predominant materials include reinforced concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced timber, each selected not only for aesthetic qualities but also for their performance characteristics. The use of concrete provides the structural integrity necessary for the building’s scale while allowing for expressive forms. Large expanses of glass break down barriers between interior and exterior spaces, promoting a connection with nature and allowing for ample natural light. Timber accents soften the overall aesthetic, introducing a warm, tactile dimension that complements the coolness of the concrete and the transparency of the glass.

Unique design approaches are evident in both the form and function of the project. The architectural layout embraces sustainability, featuring green roofs and vertical gardens that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to environmental well-being. These elements utilize local flora, which reduces water consumption and promotes biodiversity within an urban setting. The project also integrates advanced energy-efficient systems, showcasing a commitment to sustainability that aligns with contemporary architectural practices.

Moreover, the adaptive reuse aspect of the design speaks to a growing trend in architecture that values historic preservation while accommodating modern needs. The careful integration of existing structures within the new design bridges the gap between the past and the present, allowing for a dialogue between varied architectural styles. This creates a sense of continuity and places the project firmly within its geographical and historical context.

One of the standout features of the project is its community-oriented spaces, including areas designated for public gatherings, workshops, and informal meetings. These spaces are designed to be multifunctional, adaptable to a variety of uses while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout. The thoughtful inclusion of outdoor areas promotes engagement with the site, inviting both residents and visitors to enjoy the environment.

To fully appreciate the depth of the architectural design, the project presentation includes detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs that illuminate the intricate relationships between different elements. These visual representations serve not only as a means of understanding the spatial organization but also allow for a closer examination of the architectural ideas that informed the design process.

In exploring this project further, readers are encouraged to delve into the visual documentation that captures the essence of the design. The interplay between built form and landscape, the innovative use of materials, and the commitment to community engagement collectively underscore a project that is both relevant and forward-thinking. Those interested in a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural intricacies and conceptual foundations are invited to review the extensive presentation, which offers additional insights and details into this significant architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy