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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Community Spaces

Authors:
Kana Yamada, Konatsu Nagumo, Nao Noda, Amon Onodera
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly blends with its surroundings while providing versatile spaces for community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a contemporary finish.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote efficient construction and sustainability.
04
Includes a communal outdoor space designed to foster interaction among users.
05
Integrates extensive natural ventilation to enhance indoor air quality and comfort.
The project represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of space, functionality, and context. Set against a backdrop that enhances its thematic essence, this architectural design is a testament to the integration of modern aesthetics with practical use. The building serves a multi-functional purpose, accommodating both private and communal needs, emphasizing a balance between personal retreat and social interaction.

A key defining aspect of the design lies in its pure, minimalist approach. Clean lines and open space dominate, creating a seamless flow that guides inhabitants through the structure. The arrangement of open-plan spaces establishes a sense of connectivity while allowing for versatile spatial utilization. The strategic placement of windows invites natural light to permeate every corner, fostering an environment that feels welcoming while maintaining an air of sophistication.

Materiality plays an essential role in the project, emphasizing an intentional selection that aligns with sustainable practices. The use of locally sourced timber provides warmth, enhancing the interior ambiance while also ensuring that environmental considerations are at the forefront. Complementary materials such as concrete and steel contribute structural integrity, creating a harmonious juxtaposition that emphasizes modernity without sacrificing comfort. The textures arising from these materials invite tactile exploration, appealing to visitors' senses and deepening their engagement with the space.

One of the unique design approaches employed in this project is its adaptability to the surrounding landscape. Integrating green roofs and landscaped terraces extends the architectural footprint into the natural environment, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the ecological footprint of the building. This integration reflects a broader commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the architecture not only coexists with nature but actively contributes to its preservation. The thoughtful incorporation of outdoor spaces encourages users to interact with their surroundings, fostering a deeper connection between the built and natural environments.

Important architectural details are evident throughout the project, from the meticulous craftsmanship visible in joinery to the innovative use of space through sliding partitions and movable walls. These design elements not only serve functional purposes but also reflect an understanding of contemporary living, where flexibility is essential. The project exhibits a dedication to creating spaces that can evolve with their users, accommodating changing needs and lifestyles.

The overall concept of this architectural project is built on the principles of transparency and openness, both in a physical and metaphorical sense. The design seeks to remove barriers, not just between internal spaces but also in how it engages with the external environment. This approach encourages a dialogue between the architecture and its surroundings, as well as with the community it serves.

As you delve deeper into the project presentation, you will find that the architectural plans provide a comprehensive insight into the spatial organization and flow of the design. The architectural sections reveal how light interacts with the various levels and spaces, offering a layered understanding of the chosen materials and their applications. The architectural designs elevate the narrative of the project, showcasing its essence in a detailed and visually compelling manner. By exploring these elements, you can appreciate the meticulous thought and consideration that has gone into crafting a project that not only meets functional requirements but also elevates the everyday experience of its users.
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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
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