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Cedar Cladding and Biophilic Design in a Community Gathering Space

Authors:
Sahana D, Samarth Bellare, Krisha Rathore, Nikhil Dayanand
Cedar Cladding and Biophilic Design in a Community Gathering Space

Project in-detail

With its unique cedar cladding and vibrant indoor vegetation, the design creates a welcoming environment that fosters community interaction, serving as an essential gathering space for diverse activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a biophilic approach, integrating living walls to enhance indoor air quality and visual appeal.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles promotes fire resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
03
Flexible spaces within the layout can accommodate various community events and functions.
04
The structure features extensive overhangs, optimizing natural ventilation and shading throughout the year.
05
The central atrium is designed to capture and distribute daylight effectively, reducing energy consumption.
The architectural design project under discussion stands as a thoughtful response to the needs of its community, strategically located in an urban setting that emphasizes accessibility and interaction. Envisioned as a space for communal gatherings, artistic expression, and educational activities, the project embodies a commitment to fostering social connections through its carefully considered design elements.

At the core of this architectural venture is a design that promotes inclusivity and engagement among diverse community members. The layout is intuitively organized, creating fluid connections between different functional areas, including exhibition spaces, auditoriums, and community rooms. This spatial arrangement encourages movement and interaction while providing opportunities for both formal and informal encounters. The project's focus on creating a welcoming environment is achieved through the thoughtful integration of public and private areas, which allows for versatile usage catering to various programs.

The project embraces a sustainable design philosophy, evident in its choice of materials and construction methods. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone, providing needed strength and stability, while large expanses of glass facades ensure ample natural light permeates the interior. This serves not only to enhance user comfort but also to reduce dependence on artificial lighting, thus promoting energy efficiency. Cedar wood cladding enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building while establishing a natural connection to the surrounding landscape, further reinforcing the design's commitment to environmental sustainability.

One of the distinctive features of the project is the central atrium, designed as an open gathering space that acts as the heart of the building. This atrium is illuminated by skylights, bathing the space in natural light and creating an inviting atmosphere. The intentional use of indoor plants and living walls within this atrium reflects a biophilic design approach, enhancing the space's visual and sensory experience. The incorporation of these natural elements not only makes for a vibrant environment but also contributes positively to the indoor air quality, aligning with contemporary health and wellness standards in architecture.

Further enhancing the project's appeal is the integration of advanced technology within the architectural framework. Interactive digital displays are strategically placed throughout the building, offering visitors insights into the local ecological heritage and promoting awareness of sustainability practices. Such features invite users to engage with their surroundings, fostering a sense of connection to both the building and the community at large.

The exterior design also draws attention, characterized by its fluid forms that echo the natural contours of the surrounding landscape. This is achieved through creative cantilevered sections that provide visual interest and allow for expansive views of the outdoors. The design not only considers aesthetics but also climate responsiveness, ensuring that natural ventilation and thermal comfort are achieved through carefully oriented windows and shading elements.

In exploring this project, one can observe how each design choice aligns with broader goals of community engagement, environmental responsibility, and aesthetic harmony. The architectural plans and sections depict a thorough understanding of spatial relationships and user interactions, while the detailed architectural designs reflect a careful consideration of materials and their roles within the overall composition.

To gain deeper insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas that underpin this project, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the detailed presentations of architectural plans and sections available, which provide a comprehensive understanding of this significant architectural endeavor. By engaging with these elements, one can appreciate the balance of functionality and beauty that together create a space that aspires to meet the needs of the community it serves.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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