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Charred Timber and Photovoltaic Facade Creating Flexible Community Spaces in Urban Architecture

Author:
Esra Karagoz
Charred Timber and Photovoltaic Facade Creating Flexible Community Spaces in Urban Architecture

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred timber and a photovoltaic facade, the design transforms urban living by creating adaptable community spaces that promote interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing an aesthetically rich texture.
02
3D printed modular cells allow for flexible reconfiguration based on user needs.
03
Green roofs integrate natural ecosystems, improving urban biodiversity and air quality.
04
Thermo-responsive insulated glazing optimizes natural light and temperature control.
05
An atrium garden serves as a communal space, promoting social interaction within the building.

The "Amoeba Fusions" project presents an innovative architectural design situated in a densely populated urban area of New York City. This design aims to create an integrated environment that functions as a residential and commercial hub while promoting social interaction among its users. By mimicking organic forms and facilitating modularity, the project addresses contemporary urban challenges through a flexible and adaptive architectural approach.

The central concept of this project revolves around creating a structure that can grow and evolve, similar to the amoeba, thereby encapsulating the necessity for spaces that adapt to the dynamics of urban living. This adaptability manifests in a design featuring interconnected modules, which allow for various configurations based on occupancy and function. The architectural layout emphasizes connections between individual units and communal spaces, fostering collaboration and interaction.

The use of 3D printed modular cells is a significant aspect of the design, focusing on efficiency in construction and the reduction of material waste. Each module serves multiple purposes as living spaces, workspaces, and areas for communal activities. The incorporation of an atrium as a central circulation space enhances the building's connectivity, while also serving as a green area that promotes biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability is a core principle of the "Amoeba Fusions" project. The building integrates green roofs and terraces, designed to manage water runoff and support urban ecology. The selection of materials includes 3D printed plastics and photovoltaic paint on the exterior, which not only provides energy efficiency but also minimizes the environmental impact of the construction. Thermo-responsive insulated glazing is used for climate control, ensuring that natural light and temperature regulation coexist within the design.

A defining characteristic of this project is its emphasis on community integration. The public plazas surrounding the modules serve as versatile spaces catering to art installations, events, and commerce. These areas are deliberately designed to encourage social interaction and communal activities, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

In examining the unique design approaches of "Amoeba Fusions," it is evident that the project effectively combines innovation in architectural forms with practical urban solutions. By prioritizing modularity, sustainability, and community engagement, this project distinguishes itself within the landscape of urban architectural designs.

To explore the intricate details of this project further, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas behind "Amoeba Fusions," it is encouraged to review the full project presentation.

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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

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