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Community Center Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Enhanced Sustainability

Authors:
Oliver Hellmuth, Tobias Küblböck, Benedikt Will, Konstantin Blecha
Community Center Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Enhanced Sustainability

Project in-detail

Nestled within its vibrant community, this center showcases a harmonious blend of cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, creating a versatile space that prioritizes sustainability while inviting social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The center incorporates a rainwater harvesting system that effectively reduces overall water consumption and promotes ecological sustainability.
02
Unique to this design is the use of charred wooden shingles, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide durability and fire resistance.
03
The bent A-frame structure allows for optimal natural light penetration while minimizing energy costs through effective passive solar design.
04
Moveable partitions within the interior facilitate adaptable multi-purpose spaces, catering to various community activities and events.
05
Extensive use of locally sourced materials supports regional economies and minimizes transportation-related carbon emissions.
The project in question presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture that seamlessly integrates functionality with aesthetics. Positioned in a vibrant location known for its cultural depth, the design serves multiple community purposes while establishing a dialogue with its surroundings. This architectural endeavor emphasizes sustainable practices, modern materials, and innovative design concepts that enhance user experiences and create a sense of place.

At the heart of the project is a clear representation of community needs, where each element is meticulously crafted to serve specific functions. The building’s layout encourages social interaction, with open spaces that invite collaboration and engagement among users. A key feature of this project is its multi-use functionality, designed to accommodate various community events, workshops, and gatherings, fostering a sense of belonging among its users. This adaptability is a testament to the thoughtful design approach, aimed at making the space not only useful but also welcoming.

The architectural design is characterized by its balance between modern design language and contextual sensitivity. The façade utilizes a blend of materials that enhance both durability and visual appeal. Elements such as sustainably sourced timber, high-performance glass, and concrete are skillfully combined, creating a cohesive exterior that reflects the surrounding environment while ensuring energy efficiency. Large windows feature prominently throughout the design, allowing for ample natural light and promoting a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

An underlying theme in the project’s design is the emphasis on sustainability. The choice of materials is deliberate; for instance, low-VOC finishes and renewable resources are employed to minimize the building’s environmental footprint. Additionally, passive heating and cooling techniques are integrated to maximize comfort while reducing energy consumption. The roofing system features green elements that not only support biodiversity but also contribute to stormwater management, reinforcing the project’s commitment to ecological responsibility.

Particular aspects of the design highlight unique architectural ideas. The incorporation of flexible spaces allows for dynamic usage, aligning with the diverse activities expected within the community. This is enhanced by movable walls and modular furniture, providing versatility in how the spaces can be configured for various purposes. Furthermore, the design emphasizes clear sightlines and accessibility, ensuring that the building is easy to navigate, promoting inclusivity.

The landscaping surrounding the project complements the architectural design, featuring native plants that require minimal maintenance while enhancing biodiversity. The thoughtfully placed outdoor areas create opportunities for relaxation and social gatherings, blurring the lines between the building and its environment. Pathways are designed to encourage movement and exploration, leading visitors through a sequence of integrated spaces that nurture community engagement.

This project is more than a collection of walls and roofs; it embodies a vision of community-centric design, where architecture acts as a facilitator for social cohesion. Its emphasis on sustainability, functionality, and adaptability is a reflection of contemporary architectural practice, responding to the needs of its users while maintaining respect for the environment.

For those intrigued by this architectural design, further exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the project’s complexity and nuance. Delving into these elements will reveal how this project not only addresses functional requirements but also embodies a thoughtful response to its context, enriching the architectural dialogue within the community. Additionally, engaging with the variety of architectural ideas presented will showcase the innovative approaches taken in this design, emphasizing the role of architecture in shaping our built environment.
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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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