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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Tobias Guggenheimer, Jojo Gallaza, Karen hesia Pasoquin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

With its distinctive charred wooden shingles and integrated green roofs, the design redefines urban housing by creating sustainable, inviting spaces that foster community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles, providing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Green roofs are integrated to enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes space while allowing for expansive interior volumes.
05
The layout promotes communal interaction, with shared outdoor spaces designed for social gatherings.
The project highlights a well-conceived architectural design aimed at providing affordable housing solutions in a metropolitan context, specifically within Berlin. This initiative addresses critical social and economic challenges related to urban living, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility for a diverse population. The architecture represents a thoughtful response to the contemporary demands for housing while fostering community engagement and interaction.

Functionally, the project encompasses a variety of residential typologies, which cater to different demographics, including students, families, and individuals with low income. This multifaceted approach seeks to create a cohesive living environment that promotes sustainable urban development. Each housing unit is designed with flexibility in mind, enabling families to adapt spaces to their evolving needs.

Central to the project are its architectural elements that serve distinct purposes while enhancing the overall aesthetic balance. The building’s elevations are characterized by a mix of materials, including reinforced concrete, glass, steel, and wood. These materials not only ensure structural integrity but also provide distinct visual qualities that resonate with the urban context. Large glass facades allow natural light to penetrate the interiors, creating bright living spaces while reinforcing a sense of transparency and openness within the community. Additionally, the strategic use of wood for interior finishes introduces warmth and comfort, making the units feel inviting.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the architectural layout. The project emphasizes connectivity through an open-plan design that allows for unobstructed flow between spaces. Communal areas are thoughtfully integrated to foster social interaction among residents. The inclusion of a landscaped interior courtyard serves as a central gathering point, encouraging informal meetings and community activities. This design feature not only enhances social cohesion but also contributes to the overall livability of the development.

Moreover, the project incorporates sustainable practices that underline its commitment to environmental responsibility. Features such as green roofs, which help mitigate urban heat and manage stormwater runoff, are essential elements of the design. The integration of solar panels optimizes energy efficiency, further aligning the project with principles of sustainable architecture. Rainwater harvesting systems are also included, supporting water conservation efforts and promoting a responsible approach to resource management.

The vertical circulation within the building is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring efficient pathways that cater to residents of all ages and abilities. This attention to inclusivity further emphasizes the project’s commitment to creating a supportive community environment.

The project stands out not just for its functional and aesthetic qualities, but also for its capacity to adapt to various housing needs within a single architectural framework. By addressing the diverse requirements of future residents, the design promotes a transformative impact on the local community. It seeks to revitalize underutilized urban spaces, contributing to the broader context of urban renewal and development initiatives.

Through its well-considered architectural design, this project emerges as a meaningful contribution to the understanding of affordable housing in urban settings. The thoughtful integration of various elements encourages a deeper exploration of how architecture can facilitate community-building while addressing pressing housing shortages in major cities. Interested readers are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of this project to discover the detailed architectural ideas behind this essential development.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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