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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Verena Wührleitner
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious blend of modernity and sustainability, serving as a vibrant community hub that fosters interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a bent A-frame structure that enhances spatial dynamics while maximizing interior height.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique aesthetic and improve durability through fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for rapid construction and environmental sustainability.
04
Natural ventilation strategies are integrated, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.
05
The landscaping is carefully designed to support local biodiversity and create outdoor gathering spaces.
The project under analysis presents an intriguing architectural design that exemplifies the potential of contemporary thought in building spaces. Situated in a geographically significant location that complements its conceptual framework, this architecture not only serves functional purposes but also acts as a beacon of aesthetic and cultural expression. The design integrates seamlessly with its environment, showcasing both innovation and respect for the surrounding context.

From the exterior, the project reveals a compelling facade that employs a combination of materials, each carefully chosen to enhance the overall narrative. Utilizing concrete, glass, and wood, the design achieves a balance between solidity and openness. The concrete serves as a robust foundation, providing structural integrity while also communicating permanence and strength. The glass elements invite natural light into the spaces, fostering an atmosphere of transparency and connection with the outdoors. Wood, utilized in select details, adds warmth and human scale, creating a tactile experience that invites exploration and engagement.

The layout of the project is thoughtfully designed to accommodate its intended function, which centers around community interaction and social cohesion. Each space within the architecture is purposefully arranged to facilitate movement, communication, and gathering. The open-plan design promotes a fluid experience, allowing occupants to navigate freely while engaging with various functions of the building. Key areas such as communal spaces, work environments, and quiet zones have been strategically placed to balance activity and tranquility.

Unique design approaches within the project reflect a deep understanding of both environmental sustainability and user experience. The incorporation of green roofs not only contributes to energy efficiency but also provides a sustainable habitat for local flora and fauna. This feature serves to reduce urban heat island effects while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the structure from both ground level and above. Additionally, passive design strategies have been employed, optimizing natural ventilation and thermal comfort throughout the year. Such considerations underscore a commitment to designing spaces that are not only functional but are also environmentally responsible.

In terms of architectural details, the project showcases meticulous craftsmanship that further enhances its character. The precision of window placements, the integration of shading devices, and the thoughtful landscaping around the site demonstrate a comprehensive approach to the design process. Each element contributes to an overall sense of harmony, ensuring that the architecture does not detract from but rather complements the natural landscape.

The architectural outcome is a testament to the evolving relationship between built environments and their inhabitants. By prioritizing both aesthetic and practical considerations, the project stands as a model for future endeavors that emphasize community welfare and ecological consciousness. The careful selection of materials, coupled with innovative design principles, allows this project to serve as a reference point for discussions about modern architecture and its role in society.

For those interested in exploring more about this project, a detailed examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas would reveal the depth of thought and creativity involved in its conception. Engaging with these materials provides a richer understanding of how the project embodies a synthesis of function and form, ultimately contributing to a dialogue about the future of architectural practice.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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