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Ceramic-Clad Community Spaces Enhanced by Mineral Wool Insulation

Author:
Craig More
Ceramic-Clad Community Spaces Enhanced by Mineral Wool Insulation
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Ceramic tiles enclose communal spaces that prioritize flexibility and connectivity while thick mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency in a residential setting designed for urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Open volume layout allows for flexible reconfiguration.
02
Communal areas encourage interaction among residents.
03
Ceramic tile cladding provides durability and low maintenance.
04
Thick mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency.
05
Fire-resistant plywood contributes to sound insulation and safety.

The affordable urban social housing project offers a forward-thinking solution to the challenges of city living. Set in a bustling metropolitan area, the design focuses on creating spaces that are flexible and foster a sense of community among residents. The overall concept revolves around adaptable living environments that allow individuals and families to thrive within their homes, responding effectively to changing needs over time.

Layout and Flexibility

The design utilizes an open volume approach, intentionally leaving out unnecessary internal walls and fixtures. This layout enables residents to shape their spaces according to personal preferences. Furniture can serve as a way to create functional areas, providing privacy when needed while still allowing for openness. This flexibility accommodates various family dynamics and changing lifestyles, making it easier for individuals to modify their living conditions as they see fit.

Community-Centric Design

A key feature of the design is the inclusion of shared spaces at the entrance level. These communal areas are intended for multiple uses, helping to inspire interaction among residents. They can serve as spaces for relaxation, work, or even small shops. The design recognizes the importance of fostering connections among individuals, turning living environments into places where community bonds can be built and strengthened.

Material Considerations

In terms of materials, the project focuses on energy efficiency and sustainability. The external cladding is made up of large-format ceramic tiles that are lightweight and low-maintenance. This choice not only contributes to durability but also allows for aesthetic flexibility. The building’s envelope features thick, non-flammable mineral wool insulation along with an airtight EPDM membrane, ensuring that energy costs remain low while maintaining comfort throughout the year. The choice of fire-resistant, low embedded carbon plywood for the interiors enhances both safety and sound insulation, essential in busy urban settings.

Every detail in the design is aimed at ensuring that residents feel comfortable and at home. High levels of thermal insulation and careful attention to acoustic performance reflect a commitment to quality living conditions. The overall design embodies a thoughtful approach to housing, emphasizing usability, comfort, and community integration that caters to the diverse needs of city inhabitants.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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