Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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

Authors:
Emily nicole Barboza, Michael Johnsen, Brandon Michael Willmon
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Form a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates sustainable materials to create a versatile community hub that promotes interaction and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Integrates vertical gardens that enhance biodiversity and provide natural insulation.
05
Employs locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact and support regional craftsmanship.
The architectural design project in focus represents a thoughtful integration of modern aesthetics with functional purpose, showcasing innovative design approaches that cater to the needs of its users while harmonizing with the surrounding environment. Located in an urban context that encourages interaction and engagement, the project serves multiple functions, offering a versatile space that can adapt to various activities and user requirements.

At its core, the project embodies the idea of connectivity—not only between its various internal spaces but also in relation to the external environment. This is achieved through an open floor plan that facilitates natural movement and interaction, fostering a sense of community. Large, strategically placed windows allow for an abundance of natural light to flood the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This intentional choice of design elevates user experience, as it diminishes the boundary between indoor and outdoor environments, promoting a seamless transition and enhancing the overall spatial quality.

The architectural materials selected for this project further accentuate its ethos of sustainability and contextual relevance. A combination of locally sourced stone, timber, and glass not only grounds the structure in its geographical location but also addresses contemporary concerns regarding environmental impact. The use of sustainable building materials demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly practices while ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. The timber brings warmth and texture, while the glass enhances transparency and openness, effectively bridging the indoor and outdoor environments.

A significant aspect of the design is the incorporation of green spaces, both inside and outside the structure. This deliberate decision underscores the importance of nature in urban settings and promotes biodiversity. Roof gardens and vertical plantings serve as both an aesthetic enhancement and a functional element, contributing to better air quality and reducing urban heat. These green features also provide residents and users with spaces for relaxation and reflection, further enhancing their overall experience.

The project’s uniqueness lies not only in its thoughtful design and sustainable practices but also in its responsiveness to the local context. It reflects a clear understanding of the cultural and historical background of the area, integrating architectural elements that resonate with local identity while still pushing the boundaries of modern design. This sensitive approach ensures that the building does not merely exist in the urban landscape but becomes a part of it, enriching the locality’s character.

Details such as the roofline articulate a modern aesthetic while nodding to traditional forms found in the surrounding architecture. The façade’s composition blends solid and void, allowing for dynamic light play throughout the day and creating visual interest from multiple viewpoints. In terms of functionality, multi-use spaces are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various community events, workshops, and social gatherings, thus reinforcing the project’s role as a community hub.

Moreover, the design incorporates advanced energy-efficient systems, including solar panels and high-performance insulation, which collectively reduce the energy consumption of the building. This technical integration not only reflects a forward-thinking approach to architecture but also emphasizes the commitment to creating spaces that are not just visually appealing but also environmentally responsible.

As one delves deeper into the architectural plans and sections of this project, it becomes evident that every design decision has been meticulously considered to achieve a harmonious balance between beauty and functionality. The organization of space, the interaction of materials, and the engagement with the surroundings all contribute to a holistic architectural experience.

Readers are encouraged to explore further the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs to fully appreciate the intricacies and carefully crafted ideas within this project. A thorough review of these elements will provide additional insights into how this architectural endeavor successfully navigates the complexities of modern design while remaining firmly rooted in its context. By understanding the underlying concepts and design intentions, one can gain a greater appreciation for the vision behind this remarkable project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy