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

Author:
Mohamed Assan Ramadan Njikam Mfochive
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define A Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and aesthetics, serving as a vibrant community hub that enhances social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a distinct aesthetic that connects with local traditions.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create open spaces with minimal structural support, promoting flexibility in interior layouts.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and promoting energy efficiency.
04
Integrating green spaces on the roof encourages biodiversity and serves as recreational areas for community members.
05
Locally sourced materials contribute to the project's low environmental impact and foster a sense of place within the community.
The project under analysis presents a thoughtful integration of architecture and functionality, demonstrating a commitment to both form and purpose. It serves as a multi-use facility, designed to cater to the needs of the community while offering a unique aesthetic contribution to its surroundings. The architectural design embraces contemporary elements while respecting the local context, reflecting a deep understanding of the site’s historical and cultural significance.

At its core, this project represents an innovative approach to space utilization, with a careful consideration of indoor and outdoor interactions. The design effectively blurs the lines between these environments, inviting natural light and landscape into the internal spaces. Large windows and open-plan layouts create a dynamic flow, encouraging movement and interaction among users. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces facilitates a variety of functions, catering to both individual and communal activities.

Materiality is a key aspect of this architectural design, showcasing a palette that includes sustainably sourced timber, concrete, and glass. The use of timber not only enhances the warmth of the interior but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the project. Concrete provides structural integrity while framing expansive open spaces, allowing for flexible arrangements. The incorporation of glass is strategic, providing transparency and lightness that contrast with the solidity of the other materials. This combination fosters a harmonious environment, balancing durability with beauty.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The architects have prioritized user experience by incorporating biophilic design principles, allowing occupants to feel connected to nature. Terraces and green roofs play an essential role in this effort, providing spaces for relaxation and reflection. These outdoor areas are equipped with seating arrangements and native planting, further inviting users to engage with the landscape. The design also considers environmental impact, integrating energy-efficient systems and materials that promote sustainability.

The project stands out not only for its aesthetic choices but also for its adaptive reuse of existing structures. This aspect highlights a progressive architectural ethos, where preservation meets innovation. By incorporating elements of the old into new designs, the project fosters a sense of continuity and respect for the past, while still looking toward the future.

Navigational pathways within the building are carefully considered, ensuring that accessibility is a priority. Clear signage and intuitive layouts guide users through the space, enhancing the overall experience. The connection between different areas of the project has been methodically planned to promote social interactions, making it a vibrant hub for community engagement.

Overall, this architectural design exemplifies how thoughtful consideration of context, user experience, and sustainability can converge to create a space that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the project are encouraged to explore elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These documents provide valuable insights into the design process and conceptual underpinnings, illustrating how the architects articulated their vision. Engaging with these details will further illuminate the architectural ideas that shaped this impressive project.
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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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