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Charred Timber and Green Roofs in a Functional Guest House for Tea Makers

Authors:
Aya Alkhatib, Zaina Hamam
Charred Timber and Green Roofs in a Functional Guest House for Tea Makers
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Designed with charred timber and a green roof, the guest house provides a functional space for tea makers that harmonizes tradition with modern sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Guest house incorporates a green roof with planting boxes for biodiversity.
02
Design integrates indoor and outdoor spaces for enhanced occupant experience.
03
Charred timber façade creates a unique aesthetic while improving durability.
04
Monostory floor is set one meter below ground for a cozy atmosphere.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability and provide insulation.

Metamorphosis is a sustainable guest house designed for tea makers, located in a setting that appreciates traditional tea-making practices alongside modern living arrangements. The intent is to create a space that supports both work and relaxation while paying homage to the cultural heritage of tea making. By blending traditional and modern elements, the design reflects an ongoing journey of growth and adaptation.

Design Concept
The design retains much of the original character, which serves as an acknowledgment of the history tied to tea making. This combination of traditional and contemporary elements represents a balance between heritage and the present day. Varied indoor and outdoor spaces invite a deep connection with the surrounding environment. Here, residents find a calming retreat from the noisy urban landscape.

Spatial Organization
Thoughtful spatial arrangement allows for clear division between work and leisure activities. This zoning enhances productivity in the tea-making process while creating common areas for social interaction. The layout encourages movement between indoors and outdoors, so nature becomes an important feature of daily life. Such integration enhances usability and provides a rich sensory experience.

Sustainability and Materiality
Sustainability serves as a core principle in the design. The roof incorporates solar panels, providing shade and harnessing energy to support the guest house's needs. Green boxes filled with plants add an element of nature, further connecting the building to its environment. The selection of materials emphasizes low maintenance, incorporating charred timber, CLT panels, exposed metal, and polycarbonate. These choices contribute to an appealing aesthetic while maintaining durability against environmental factors.

Architectural Detailing
The design achieves a unique volumetric quality through the lowering of the monostory floor to one meter below ground level. This choice creates a cozy atmosphere while allowing ample natural light to fill the space. The integration of natural materials and careful design details enhances usability, ensuring the guest house functions well while respecting the traditions of tea makers. Every corner invites exploration and interaction, creating a space that is both practical and rooted in culture.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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