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

Author:
Carlos Joel Trindade
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Exemplifying sustainable design, the use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for a community hub that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof that enhances insulation and promotes biodiversity.
02
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic and sustainable benefits.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and airflow.
04
Integrates flexible spaces designed to adapt to various community activities and needs.
05
Employs recycled metals to minimize environmental impact while providing structural integrity.
The project at hand is a thoughtfully considered architectural endeavor that exemplifies contemporary design principles while responding to its unique geographical context. Situated in a location that offers both scenic beauty and functional challenges, the structure is designed to harmonize with its surroundings, providing a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. The project prioritizes sustainability and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of environmental consciousness in modern architecture.

The design represents a cohesive blend of form, function, and environmental sensitivity. It serves as a multipurpose space that accommodates various community activities, fostering social interaction and participation. The layout is meticulously planned to ensure that each area serves a specific purpose while contributing to the overall ambiance of the building. The design is characterized by open spaces that invite natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances user experience and engagement.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the architectural language of this project. A careful selection of materials includes locally sourced timber, recycled metals, and glass, which not only reduces the environmental footprint but also addresses the tactile and aesthetic qualities that resonate with the surrounding landscape. The choice of these materials reflects an intention to create a building that ages gracefully, with a weathered patina that creates a sense of place and history over time. The exterior facade is designed to resist the elements while providing varying textures that engage the senses, with wooden cladding offering warmth and resilience.

The roof design is notably innovative, featuring green roofing elements that not only enhance insulation but also promote biodiversity by providing a habitat for local flora and fauna. This feature exemplifies the project’s dedication to sustainability, as it aims to reduce rainwater runoff and enhance the thermal performance of the building. Additionally, expansive overhangs offer shade during warmer months, reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling and further emphasizing the energy-efficient aspects of the design.

In terms of spatial organization, the project employs an intuitive flow, allowing users to navigate the space effortlessly. Key areas such as communal gathering spots, meeting rooms, and recreational facilities are strategically positioned to encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy where necessary. The design incorporates flexible spaces that can be adapted for different uses, reinforcing the project’s goal of versatility.

Large windows and strategically placed openings foster a connection between the indoor environment and the outside world, allowing for dynamic engagement with nature throughout the seasons. The transparency of the design invites views of the landscape, integrating them into the user experience and promoting well-being.

What is particularly noteworthy about this project is its commitment to community. It is not just a building; it is a place that encourages social cohesion and cultural exchange. The architecture embraces local identity, drawing inspiration from regional styles and dynamics. Furthermore, it actively encourages user participation in its spaces, whether through events, workshops, or casual gatherings, cultivating a sense of belonging among its users.

The architectural details, from the carefully designed entrances that invite engagement to the careful placement of windows that frame key vistas, all contribute to a cohesive narrative of design that speaks to the needs and aspirations of the community it serves. This project not only fulfills its intended functional requirements but also enhances the character of its location.

For a deeper exploration of this architectural endeavor, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs that shape the project's outcome, readers are encouraged to review the full presentation of the project. This comprehensive overview will provide further insights into the innovative ideas and thoughtful details that define this architectural work, highlighting its contributions to contemporary design discourse and community life.
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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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