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Charred Shingles Complement Steel Frame in Community Observation Structure

Authors:
Aleksa Milojevic, Adam Rostek
Charred Shingles Complement Steel Frame in Community Observation Structure

Project in-detail

The integration of charred wooden shingles with a robust steel frame creates a visually striking contrast, enhancing the observation spaces designed to foster community engagement and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create efficient structural support and thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for unique spatial experiences and visual connections.
04
Large cantilevered sections extend usable space while minimizing ground impact.
05
Multiple vantage points are integrated throughout the structure, encouraging exploration and observation.

### Overview

"Observances: An American Diptych" is located within an industrial landscape and aims to explore the relationship between perception and interaction. The design operates on the concept of a diptych, where two distinct yet interconnected segments create a dialogue about observation as both a physical act and a reflective process. Through this framework, the project seeks to enhance visitor engagement with the environment, encouraging both introspection and active interaction.

### Spatial Organization and User Interaction

The spatial organization is characterized by interlocking volumes that defy conventional architectural forms. A series of voids and cantilevers facilitates dynamic outdoor areas, balconies, and vantage points, allowing for diverse views of the surrounding landscape. A central core organizes functional spaces, serving as the main axis for circulation and community engagement. This approach emphasizes shared experiences and fosters a sense of connection among users.

The design incorporates significant visual elements, such as vibrant red accents and transparent features, to direct movement and highlight key pathways. These design choices establish a visual hierarchy that guides users through the space, creating an environment conducive to both intimate encounters and broader social interactions.

### Materiality and Environmental Context

The project's material palette includes steel, glass, concrete, and wood, each selected for its functional and aesthetic properties. Steel serves as the structural framework, reflecting modern industrial contexts. Glass is employed extensively to enhance transparency and visual continuity between interiors and the external environment. Concrete provides a stable base for the building, while wood is utilized in select interior spaces to add warmth and intimacy.

This combination of materials not only addresses durability but also supports a dialogue between the structure and its environment, highlighting the significance of context in architectural design. By employing these materials thoughtfully, the project underscores the interaction between solid and void, creating a meaningful relationship with its surroundings.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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