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

Authors:
Ala ali muthanna Ali, Ahmed Hegazi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Shape a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

With a striking façade of charred wooden shingles and a structural framework of cross-laminated timber, the design fosters a deep connection to its environment while serving as a dynamic community hub for gatherings and educational activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a green roof that enhances biodiversity and aids in stormwater management.
02
Interior spaces are designed with acoustic treatment to create a comfortable environment for various activities.
03
Natural stone elements are sourced locally, reinforcing the project’s connection to the surrounding landscape.
04
Flexible room configurations allow for diverse community events, promoting adaptability in usage.
05
Architectural details reflect traditional local craftsmanship, blending modern techniques with regional heritage.
The architectural project in focus presents a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, encapsulating a balanced relationship between its physical environment and the needs of its users. This design is situated within a landscape that nourishes its concept, highlighting the significance of local culture and climatology in its formation. The project serves as a multipurpose space, designed to accommodate various activities that range from communal gatherings to educational workshops, effectively promoting interaction and collaboration among its visitors.

At the heart of this architectural endeavor lies a commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsive design. The building's form is influenced by the natural topography and existing vegetation, allowing for a seamless flow from the outdoor environment to the interior spaces. This connection is enhanced by expansive glazing that not only invites natural light but also affords occupants panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The design cleverly maximizes passive solar gain while minimizing heating and cooling demands, showcasing a keen awareness of energy efficiency.

The materials selected for this project were chosen not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their environmental performance. Utilizing locally sourced timber, natural stone, and high-performance glazing, the design reflects a commitment to reducing the project's carbon footprint while celebrating the region's material heritage. The use of timber evokes warmth and durability, while strategically placed stone elements provide a tactile contrast that anchors the structure within its setting. Each material plays a critical role in not only meeting sustainability goals but also in enriching the sensory experience of the building’s users.

Circulation within the project is well-considered, with clearly defined pathways that guide occupants through the various spaces. Generous lobby areas serve as transitional zones, promoting social interaction before users engage in more focused activities within the specific rooms. The interior layout is designed to foster flexibility, accommodating various configurations for events, workshops, and smaller gatherings, making it a versatile space that responds to the evolving needs of its community.

A unique aspect of this design is its roof structure, which has been developed as a feature that both collects rainwater and contributes to the building’s energy efficiency. This green roof element not only supports biodiversity by providing habitats for local flora and fauna but also features a carefully curated mix of vegetation, significantly improving stormwater management. The integration of a green roof underscores the project’s commitment to a holistic approach toward environmental stewardship.

Moreover, the project thoughtfully considers the acoustic environment, incorporating sound-absorbing materials and spatial separations that enhance the comfort of users. This attention to detail extends to the choice of finishes and furnishings, which were selected to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages community engagement and creativity. Each space within the structure tells a story, revealing the careful craftsmanship that has gone into its construction.

In terms of the architectural design’s overall aesthetics, the subtle blending of modern and traditional elements creates a sense of timelessness. The careful interplay of scales, textures, and colors forms a cohesive identity for the building, allowing it to stand as a landmark within its community without overshadowing its surroundings. The exterior façades exhibit a rhythmic pattern that draws inspiration from local architectural vernacular, seamlessly integrating with the cultural narrative of the region.

This project embodies a compelling architectural vision, grounded in principles of sustainability, functionality, and community engagement. The result is a building that is not just a structure, but a space that engages its users while fostering a strong sense of belonging. To gain further insights into the intricacies of this design, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas that illustrate the project’s thoughtful approach, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in greater detail. This exploration will reveal the depth and thoughtfulness embedded within this outstanding architectural endeavor.
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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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