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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Living Spaces in Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Mélissa Caron-labrecque, Lea Primiano
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Living Spaces in Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and modular units, this urban housing solution redefines communal living while paying homage to traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, a method that enhances durability and weather resistance.
02
Modular housing units are adaptable, allowing for easy reconfiguration based on resident needs.
03
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed large windows, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the project's sustainability by minimizing carbon footprint.
05
Communal spaces are seamlessly integrated throughout the layout, promoting social interaction among residents.
Tatami City is an architectural project that embodies a thoughtful integration of cultural heritage and contemporary urban living. Inspired by the traditional Japanese tatami mat, the design reflects an understanding of human scale and space, providing a fresh perspective on urban housing. This project aims to address the challenges of modern living while respecting the traditions that inform such environments. By focusing on affordability, adaptability, and community interaction, Tatami City represents a significant step in rethinking urban residential spaces.

The project is primarily residential, intended to serve a diverse demographic, including families, individuals, and seniors. The layout encourages social engagement among residents through communal spaces that promote interactions, fostering a sense of community within the urban fabric. The architectural design is modular, enabling flexibility in the number and types of housing units, which can easily accommodate changes in household size or resident preferences. This flexible approach is a key characteristic of the project, allowing for the scalability needed in rapidly growing urban areas.

A detailed examination of Tatami City reveals a carefully curated selection of materials, each chosen for its functional and aesthetic properties. Concrete serves as the main structural element, providing resilience and stability to the buildings. Glass is extensively utilized throughout the design, allowing for expansive views and abundant natural light within the living spaces, enhancing the occupants' connection to the surrounding environment. Wood features prominently in the design as well, employing traditional techniques to highlight craftsmanship while ensuring thermal comfort and sustainability. Additionally, brick has been incorporated into the exterior, merging durability with a tactile quality that respects the cultural context of the region.

The design discusses unique architectural approaches, particularly in how it addresses environmental considerations. Large windows facilitate passive ventilation, allowing natural airflow to cool the interiors during warmer months while maximizing solar gain in the colder seasons. This responsiveness to the climate not only promotes energy efficiency but also ensures that residents are comfortable year-round. The incorporation of green spaces serves multiple purposes, from aiding in air purification to providing aesthetic relief within a densely populated area, further enhancing residents’ quality of life.

One of the project's remarkable aspects is its alignment with principles of sustainability and social responsibility. By providing affordable housing solutions, Tatami City demonstrates how architecture can help alleviate pressing issues within urban settings. The modular design allows for adaptation over time, accommodating changing societal needs and fostering resilience amid urban development pressures.

The individuality of Tatami City lies in its commitment to merging traditional architectural elements with innovative contemporary features. It serves as a tangible representation of how historical context can inform modern urban design. The dimensions of the tatami mat have been adopted as a guiding measure throughout the project, resulting in spaces that feel both familiar and functional.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas behind Tatami City is highly recommended. Engaging with these elements will reveal the complexity and thoughtfulness that underpin this architectural endeavor, offering insights into how it redefines urban living. The project stands as a testament to the possibilities inherent in the blend of tradition and innovation, and it invites exploration for anyone wishing to delve further into its design narrative.
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MICROHOME
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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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