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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Natalia Politano ribeiro de oliveira
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and modern living, catering to a vibrant urban community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to minimize construction waste and improve energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and creates engaging interior spaces.
04
Includes innovative rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the landscape design.
05
Prioritizes community connectivity with shared outdoor spaces and communal gathering areas.
The architectural design project under consideration presents a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to modern living spaces, seamlessly integrating functionality with aesthetics in a manner that respects its surrounding environment. Situated in a vibrant urban landscape, this project embodies contemporary architectural principles while catering to the practical needs of its inhabitants. As an exploration of form and space, the design creates a dialogue between its built features and the natural elements that encircle it, promoting a sense of harmony both within and outside its walls.

At its core, the project represents a commitment to sustainable living without sacrificing style. Designed to accommodate a diverse range of activities, the building serves multiple functions, including residential units and communal areas. This multifunctionality is a central theme that informs the layout and spatial organization, emphasizing flexibility to adapt to the varying needs of different users. The architects have innovatively grouped spaces to foster interaction among residents while ensuring personal privacy, thereby enriching the community experience.

Key architectural details reveal the careful consideration of materials that contribute not only to the visual appeal but also to the building’s overall performance. A combination of locally sourced timber, durable concrete, and large expanses of glass facilitates both structural integrity and energy efficiency. These materials have been chosen with thoughtfulness; wood adds warmth and character, concrete provides stability and resilience, and glass invites abundant natural light into the interior spaces. This intentional blend of textures enhances the aesthetic quality while demonstrating respect for sustainable practices through the use of renewable and locally sourced resources.

One of the most notable aspects of the design is its emphasis on outdoor living. Balconies and terraces are strategically placed to extend the interior space into the outdoors, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings. Green roofs and landscaped areas not only beautify the environment but also contribute to biodiversity and urban cooling. These design choices reflect a broader trend in architecture that seeks to reconnect inhabitants with nature, promoting well-being and enhancing the quality of life in urban settings.

The layout of the building is characterized by open plans that allow for fluid movement between spaces, effectively breaking down barriers while still maintaining defined areas for specific functions. This approach to spatial organization encourages social interaction and creates naturally lit environments that are both welcoming and efficient. Additionally, careful attention has been given to circulation paths, allowing for intuitive navigation throughout the various levels of the building.

Architectural sections and plans reveal the complexity of the design, illustrating how vertical movements are accommodated through thoughtfully integrated elements such as staircases and elevators. These features not only serve practical purposes but also act as visual focal points within the interior, enhancing the overall experience as occupants traverse the different levels. The careful balancing of open and enclosed areas further contributes to a nuanced understanding of space, drawing visitors into an engaging experience.

This project’s design philosophy rests on the idea of being both innovative and contextual. By considering its geographical and cultural positioning, the architects have created a structure that feels intrinsically linked to its surroundings. The façade, with its rhythmic patterns and visual depth, reflects the urban context while paying homage to local architectural traditions. This sensitive approach ensures that the building does not merely exist within the cityscape but becomes a vibrant part of it, encouraging both community connection and aesthetic appreciation.

Thus, this architectural endeavor stands out for its thoughtful integration of form and function, along with a strong commitment to sustainability and community. The balance of aesthetic appeal with practical concerns underscores a matured understanding of modern architectural practice. For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and ideas related to this project will provide valuable insights into the intentions and innovations that have shaped its development. This exploration is essential for a richer understanding of contemporary architecture and its evolving role in urban settings.
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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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