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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Versatile Community Hub

Authors:
Su Been Seo, Lee Ikhoon
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

With its striking charred wooden shingles and innovative use of cross-laminated timber, the design creates an inviting space that serves as a multifunctional hub for community engagement and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance while offering a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout, providing structural integrity and promoting sustainability.
03
An innovative bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces that maximize natural light and ventilation.
04
The design features integrated green roofs which contribute to thermal efficiency and support local biodiversity.
05
Flexible communal areas are designed to adapt for various events, fostering community engagement and interaction.
The architectural project at hand stands as a significant contribution to contemporary design, harmonizing functional requirements with aesthetic aspirations. This project, situated in an urban context that demands both versatility and innovation, serves as a multi-purpose facility intended to foster community engagement and promote social activities. The design encapsulates a clear understanding of the needs of its users while responding thoughtfully to the environmental conditions and surrounding urban fabric.

At the core of this architectural endeavor is a dedication to creating spaces that are not only practical but also resonate with the community's identity. The project represents a synthesis of various functions, from recreational and educational spaces to areas dedicated to social interaction. This multifunctionality is exemplified through open layouts and flexible environments that adapt to varying uses, encouraging both individual and collective experiences.

The design approach taken emphasizes an interplay between indoor and outdoor environments, promoting natural ventilation and ample daylight through strategically placed windows and openings. This consideration enhances the overall experience within the building, fostering a sense of well-being among users. Material choices further underscore this relationship with nature, employing sustainably sourced woods, durable metals, and locally sourced bricks that echo the region's architectural vernacular. Each material serves a specific purpose, contributing to the building's structural integrity while also accentuating its aesthetic qualities.

Significant elements of the design include expansive communal spaces that facilitate gatherings and events, which are essential for community interaction. These spaces are framed by large, glass facades that invite the public to view the activities within, creating a sense of transparency and openness. The layout ensures easy navigation and accessibility, with clearly defined pathways and signage that enhance the user experience while adhering to universal design principles.

The project makes a compelling statement through its unique roof structure, which not only serves practical purposes such as rainwater collection but also acts as a prominent visual landmark within the urban landscape. This distinctive feature invites exploration while simultaneously providing shelter and enhancing the building’s environmental performance.

Another noteworthy aspect is the incorporation of green spaces within and around the building. Roof gardens and pocket parks are thoughtfully integrated into the design, promoting biodiversity and offering a refuge for urban wildlife. These areas also provide a place for relaxation and informal gathering, emphasizing the project's commitment to fostering community ties.

The architectural design employs a modernist language, characterized by clean lines and an uncluttered aesthetic. Yet, it is the careful attention to context — considering sight lines, neighboring structures, and the historical narrative of the area — that truly distinguishes this project. The structure does not stand as an isolated entity but rather engages with its surroundings, enhancing the overall cohesiveness of the neighborhood.

As one delves deeper into this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and additional architectural designs, a wealth of insights about the underlying ideas and methodologies unfolds. The project showcases a balanced perspective between contemporary design and contextual sensitivity, illustrating that architecture can indeed serve functional needs while enriching community spirit. For those keen on understanding how architectural elements can be maneuvered to enhance everyday life, further exploration of this project presentation is highly encouraged. It provides a unique opportunity to witness how thoughtful design engages with both users and the environment, setting a benchmark for future architectural endeavors.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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