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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Multi-Functional Urban Hub

Authors:
Simone Animobono, Marco Ferranti, Stefania grazia Smaldone
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades in a Multi-Functional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural materials and modern aesthetics in a vibrant mixed-use community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
A rooftop garden features native plant species, promoting local biodiversity and ecological balance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while showcasing sustainable sourcing.
04
The building's bent A-frame design responds to the site’s topography and optimizes natural light.
05
Smart technology integration allows for efficient energy management throughout the facility.
The architectural design project located in downtown Portland represents a thoughtful endeavor aimed at creating a vibrant mixed-use space that seamlessly integrates various functions while promoting community interaction and environmental sustainability. This project is characterized by its innovative approach to form, material selection, and the overall spatial experience it affords its residents and visitors.

At its core, this architecture project embodies the principles of urban living, focusing on the delicate balance between residential, commercial, and communal spaces. By doing so, it emphasizes the importance of connectivity and interaction within an urban environment, which is essential for fostering a sense of community. The design prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring that both indoor and outdoor spaces cater to diverse groups, thus enhancing the overall functionality of the site.

The overall massing of the structure is a critical aspect of the design. Composed of staggered blocks that differ in height, the building creates a dynamic skyline while responding to the surrounding landscape. This fragmentation prevents the structure from appearing monolithic, instead fostering a sense of human scale that invites engagement. The undulating rooflines resonate with the natural topography of the region, which is an intentional nod to the local environment and demonstrates the architects' sensitivity to context.

The façade treatment is another vital component of this project. Utilizing a combination of glass and sustainable timber cladding, the design achieves a blend of transparency and warmth. Floor-to-ceiling windows not only allow for ample natural light but also foster a strong connection between the interior and the exterior. The careful placement of operable elements, such as louvers and overhangs, provides essential shading and reduces energy consumption, aligning with the project’s sustainability objectives.

Outdoor spaces play a significant role in enhancing the architectural design. A rooftop garden serves as a green oasis, featuring native plant species that contribute to biodiversity and offer residents a retreat from urban life. Ground-level public plazas are thoughtfully designed to encourage social interactions, providing ample seating, art installations, and water features that create engaging focal points for the community. This emphasis on outdoor amenities reflects a modern understanding of urban living, where access to green spaces is increasingly recognized as crucial for enhancing quality of life.

In terms of materiality, the project employs a carefully curated selection of materials that resonate with both functionality and aesthetics. Reinforced concrete serves as the backbone for structural support, enabling the flexibility needed for innovative architectural forms. Steel elements are integrated seamlessly to enhance both structural integrity and design expression. The use of high-performance glazing and sustainable timber, particularly cedar, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere while ensuring the building meets modern energy efficiency standards. Additional elements, such as permeable paving stones and recycled aggregates in landscape design, further underscore the project’s commitment to sustainability, illustrating a comprehensive approach to environmental considerations.

Unique design approaches in this architectural project include the innovative use of smart building technologies, which enhance the overall efficiency of the space. By incorporating sensor-based systems and automated controls, the project embraces modern solutions that optimize energy consumption and improve the comfort of its occupants. This not only aligns with the general trend towards greener building practices but also demonstrates an awareness of future urban challenges.

Ultimately, this architectural design project in downtown Portland represents a modern interpretation of mixed-use urban development, focusing on fostering community, sustainability, and connectivity. Its design elements come together to create an effective blend of functionality and environmental consciousness, presenting an approachable model for contemporary architecture. Readers interested in gaining deeper insights into this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs, which further illustrate the innovative ideas that define this unique undertaking.
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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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