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

Author:
Rita Balogh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

With an exterior wrapped in charred wooden shingles and an interior framed by cross-laminated timber, the design fosters a seamless connection between nature and community, serving as a versatile hub for gatherings and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure integrates a green roof that supports local biodiversity and enhances insulation.
02
Natural ventilation systems are strategically designed to optimize air quality throughout the space.
03
Charred wooden shingles were selected for their fire-resistant properties and unique aesthetic appeal.
04
Flexible interior spaces can adapt to various community activities, from workshops to social events.
05
Transparent design elements create visual connections with the surrounding landscape, blurring indoor and outdoor boundaries.
The project is a thoughtful architectural endeavor that showcases a harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and environmental consideration. Designed to serve as a multifunctional community hub, the building stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices while respecting its surroundings. This site, located in a vibrant urban area, aims to foster community interactions and provide a gathering space that caters to various activities including workshops, exhibitions, and social events.

At the core of the design is the intent to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages people to engage with not only the building itself but also with one another. This is achieved through an open floor plan that facilitates flexible use of space, allowing for a range of setups from collaborative areas to individual retreats. The architectural layout integrates both public and private zones seamlessly, ensuring that users can find both interaction and solitude within the same structure.

The materiality of the project plays a pivotal role in its expression and functionality. Utilizing locally sourced materials such as sustainably harvested timber, exposed concrete, and energy-efficient glass, the design establishes a connection with the site’s natural environment. The wooden elements provide warmth and a tactile quality, while the concrete offers durability and a grounding presence. The use of glass not only enhances natural light penetration but also emphasizes transparency, breaking down barriers between indoor and outdoor settings. The careful selection of materials results in an aesthetic that is both contemporary and contextually appropriate, blending with the existing urban fabric.

One unique aspect of this architectural project is its integration of green technologies and sustainable practices. The design incorporates a green roof, which not only provides insulation but also contributes to local biodiversity. Rainwater harvesting systems are included, aimed at reducing potable water consumption. Additionally, the strategic placement of overhangs and shading devices minimizes heat gain, promoting energy efficiency throughout the year. Such considerations affirm the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship, setting a benchmark for future developments in the area.

The facades of the building reflect a rhythmic interplay of solid and voids, with strategically placed windows that frame views of the surroundings. This thoughtful design approach not only enriches the visual experience for its occupants but also aligns with the intent of blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. By encouraging views towards the landscape and facilitating natural ventilation, the architecture embraces a holistic understanding of comfort and well-being.

The project also pays homage to local architectural vernacular through the careful proportioning of volumes and materials. This respectful nod to tradition, combined with modern design sensibilities, creates a dialogue between past and present. It encourages a sense of place and identity, making users feel connected to both the building and the community at large.

In exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs, one can appreciate the meticulously thought-out design ideas that inform this project. Each detail, from the façade articulation to the interior finishes, reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and user experience. The use of color and texture throughout the interiors provides a cohesive narrative that enhances the building's function as a community space.

This project represents not only a space for activities but also a beacon of contemporary architectural practices. By offering a platform for community engagement while incorporating sustainable principles and materials, it sets a standard for future developments in urban settings. Potential visitors and stakeholders are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections to fully appreciate the layers of thought and intention that have shaped this project. Exploring the broader architectural ideas behind this design will reveal a commitment to creating environments that support and uplift communities.
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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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