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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Versatile Community Space

Author:
Rosario Medici
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a Versatile Community Space

Project in-detail

Inspired by the local landscape, the use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and modern design, culminating in a multifunctional community space that fosters engagement and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bent A-frame design enhances structural stability while providing a distinct visual silhouette.
02
Charred wooden shingles serve both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance, reflecting a thoughtful approach to material selection.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lighter footprint, promoting sustainability through efficient use of resources.
04
A landscaped berm integrates the building with the site, fostering a seamless connection between nature and the built environment.
05
Flexible interior spaces can be easily reconfigured to accommodate a variety of community events and gatherings.
The project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, emphasizing functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. Located in an area that reflects a rich historical context, this design serves multiple purposes, catering to both individual needs and broader societal functions. It represents an architectural solution that resonates with the local culture while embracing modern design principles.

The primary function of the project is to provide a versatile space that accommodates various activities—ranging from educational programs to public events and community gatherings. This adaptability is central to the architectural design, allowing for fluid spatial configurations that can evolve with changing needs. The architect's vision incorporates the idea of a living space that encourages interaction, promotes learning, and fosters a sense of connection among its users.

Key elements of the design include an inviting entrance that seamlessly integrates with the landscaped surroundings, forming a welcoming threshold between the external environment and the internal experience. Large windows punctuate the façade, offering views of the local landscape while ensuring that natural light fills the interior spaces. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic value but also contributes to energy efficiency, leveraging daylight to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.

Inside, the heart of the project features an open-plan layout that encourages movement and social interaction. Flexible spaces are thoughtfully distributed throughout, with rooms designated for workshops, meetings, and exhibitions. This versatility is a hallmark of modern architecture, ensuring that the structure can adapt to various functions over time. The incorporation of movable partitions is a unique design approach that allows for the reconfiguration of spaces based on specific activities or group sizes.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall character of the project. The design employs a palette of locally sourced materials, such as stone, timber, and glass, that not only reflect the architectural language of the region but also emphasize sustainability. For instance, the use of timber for interior finishes adds warmth while supporting low carbon footprints through responsible sourcing. Reinforced concrete and steel are utilized strategically to achieve structural integrity, balancing robustness with aesthetic clarity.

The building’s roof features green elements, such as vegetation that contributes to biodiversity and provides a thermal buffer, demonstrating an awareness of local environmental conditions and energy performance. These sustainable design strategies underscore a commitment to creating a positive impact on both the environment and the surrounding community.

The overall architectural form resonates with its context, embodying a dialogue between past and present. The design incorporates elements that nod to local traditions while employing contemporary techniques and technologies, creating a sense of continuity and relevance. Attention to detail is evident in the various intersections of materials, where transitions between the interior and exterior highlight craftsmanship and enhance user experience.

As a result, the project stands as a testament to contemporary architectural practices, where design meets functionality without sacrificing aesthetic sensibility. It invites users to interact, learn, and grow, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the community.

For those interested in exploring the full dimensions of this architectural endeavor, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design intentions, further investigation into its presentation is encouraged. This deep dive into the architectural ideas behind the project promises to provide valuable insights into the creative processes and considerations that shaped this exceptional work of architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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