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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Connectivity

Authors:
Yun Liao, Jiaying Su
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Connectivity

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels intertwine seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, creating a distinctive multi-purpose facility that fosters community engagement and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively, promoting a sustainable approach to construction.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes structural strength while allowing for expansive interior spaces.
04
The facility integrates an innovative rainwater harvesting system to support landscaping needs.
05
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed large windows, reducing energy consumption.
The project at hand embodies a thoughtful integration of architectural design principles and innovative solutions, manifesting a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Located in an urban setting notable for its vibrant character, the structure serves as a multi-purpose facility that meets the diverse needs of the community. Its design reflects a commitment to enhancing human experience while respecting the context in which it is situated.

From a conceptual standpoint, the project represents an evolution of modern architectural ideas by emphasizing sustainability and user-centric design. The intent is to create a space that not only serves as a physical structure but also fosters interactions among its users. The architects have employed a strategy that prioritizes natural light and ventilation, enhancing the building's livability. The incorporation of large, glazed facades allows for abundant daylight to penetrate the interior, reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a welcoming environment.

The architectural details reveal a meticulous approach to material selection and design execution. The primary materials utilized include reinforced concrete, which provides structural integrity, and glass, which contributes to transparency and connectivity between interior and exterior spaces. Timber elements are introduced for flooring and detailing, offering warmth and a tactile quality that contrasts with the modernity of concrete and glass. The combination of these materials not only fulfills functional requirements but also adds a dynamic visual interest to the overall architecture.

Significant areas within the project are designed with careful consideration of their function and user interaction. Common areas are thoughtfully planned to encourage socialization, while individual spaces cater to specific activities, ensuring that versatility is woven into the fabric of the design. Each room is equipped with acoustic solutions to facilitate both privacy and collaboration, reflecting a keen awareness of the diverse patterns of use. The architectural plans illustrate how areas flow into one another, enhancing the usability of the entire complex.

A unique design approach is evident in the integration of landscaping with the architecture. Outdoor spaces have been cultivated to enhance the experience of users while providing an ecological balance to the urban environment. Paved walkways, garden elements, and seating areas create a seamless transition between built and natural environments. This attention to landscape is not merely ornamental; it serves practical functions such as rainwater management and local biodiversity support.

The project also stands out for its innovative use of technology aimed at energy efficiency. Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and geothermal heating, aligns the design with modern sustainability goals. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the building operates with reduced carbon emissions and lowers operational costs, making it a model for future architectural endeavors.

Throughout the design, the emphasis on community engagement is palpable. Spaces have been created with the intention of inviting community members to gather, collaborate, and share experiences. This focus on community is a testament to the architects' understanding of the role that such structures play in urban settings. By reinforcing social ties through architectural decisions, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for its users.

In conclusion, the project exemplifies a comprehensive application of architectural principles that prioritize function, sustainability, and community well-being. Its thoughtful design choices reflect a deep understanding of the context and needs of the urban environment it inhabits. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that bring this project to life, readers are encouraged to explore the details further.
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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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