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

Author:
Gavin Oneill Laughland
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Combining the warmth of sustainable timber with the rugged texture of charred wooden shingles, this community hub seamlessly integrates natural materials to foster a welcoming environment for social interaction and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a dual-layered façade with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that improve structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light infiltration and create dynamic interior spaces.
04
Integrates a rainwater management system designed to promote sustainability and reduce runoff.
05
Includes native landscaping that supports local biodiversity and enhances the building's ecological footprint.
The architectural design project presented is a nuanced exploration of space, functionality, and environmental context, meticulously crafted to integrate with its surroundings while serving its intended purpose. This project embodies a commitment to innovative architectural ideas that harmoniously balance aesthetic appeal and pragmatic use. The design showcases a thoughtful engagement with modern architectural principles, reflecting a deep understanding of both user needs and environmental considerations.

The project functions primarily as a multi-use space, accommodating both residential and communal areas. This dual-purpose approach encourages a sense of community while providing individuals with privacy and comfort. Central to the design is an open floor plan that promotes fluid movement throughout the structure, inviting natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces. Such spatial organization not only enhances the overall atmosphere but also fosters social interaction among residents, serving as a backbone for community engagement.

Materiality plays a crucial role in this architectural endeavor. The selection of materials includes a blend of local stone, sustainable timber, glass, and metal, each chosen for its distinctive properties and environmental credentials. The local stone establishes a strong connection to the geographical context, grounding the structure within its landscape. Sustainable timber is utilized not only for its aesthetic warmth but also for its reduced environmental impact, supporting the project’s commitment to sustainability. Glass elements introduce transparency and a sense of openness, blurring the lines between the interior and exterior landscapes, while metal accents add a contemporary touch that contrasts harmoniously with the natural materials used.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in its roof form and integration with the topography. The roof design, featuring gentle slopes and overhangs, not only enhances the building’s profile against the skyline but also serves practical purposes in terms of rainwater management and solar energy capture. By incorporating green technologies, the project exemplifies a forward-thinking attitude towards sustainability in architecture while ensuring energy efficiency in its operation.

Landscaping plays an essential role in the overall design, creating a seamless transition from the architectural form to the natural environment. Native plants have been carefully selected to minimize water use and provide year-round interest, fostering biodiversity and enhancing the ecosystem surrounding the project. This careful attention to landscaping underscores the importance of creating symbiotic relationships within the environment, as well as emphasizing the project’s commitment to sustainable practices.

The architectural sections reveal the thoughtful layering of spaces, allowing for differentiation in heights and volumes that enhance the user experience. The interplay of solid and void not only provides visual interest but also encourages passive climate control, crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. The incorporation of outdoor spaces, such as terraces and balconies, further extends the livable area and promotes an outdoor lifestyle, allowing residents to engage with their surroundings actively.

In examining the architectural plans, one can appreciate how every detail has been meticulously considered to create a cohesive and functional environment. From the circulation patterns to the placement of windows that capture optimal views, each aspect of the design contributes to an overall narrative that speaks to the values of community, sustainability, and modern living.

This project represents a thoughtful response to contemporary architectural challenges, setting a benchmark for future developments in the region. It embodies an integration of form and function, while its unique design features reflect a sensitivity to both user needs and environmental stewardship. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further, delving into the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas that shaped this exceptional architectural endeavor.
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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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