Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Timber Cladding and Communal Gardens in Sustainable Sydney Living

Author:
Jason Nunn
Charred Timber Cladding and Communal Gardens in Sustainable Sydney Living

Project in-detail

With charred timber exteriors that harmonize with lush communal gardens, the design provides an affordable and sustainable living solution in Sydney’s suburban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to a lightweight structure with superior thermal performance.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while creating a visually distinctive silhouette.
04
Communal gardens integrated into the layout foster community interaction and outdoor engagement.
05
The project emphasizes affordable housing through innovative shared land ownership models.
The architectural project titled "Tell Him He’s Dreamin’" emerges as a thoughtful response to the growing housing challenges in Sydney, Australia. It embodies a vision aimed at addressing the affordability crisis while promoting sustainable and community-oriented living. The design presents a model that fosters a unique sense of belonging and connection among residents, making it more than just a collection of homes; it serves as a catalyst for rebuilding community ties often eroded in urban sprawl.

This project represents an innovative approach to suburban architecture, advocating for a shift from traditional ideas of individual property ownership toward a more collaborative living environment. The design integrates multiple families within a carefully structured layout, resonating with the concept of shared spaces that enhance social interaction. Such an approach not only maximizes land use but also allows residents to enjoy communal areas that encourage gatherings, play, and leisure activities.

Functionally, the architecture serves as a multi-family dwelling, optimized for a diverse population that includes families and individuals who may be struggling with housing costs. The thoughtful arrangement of units around communal green spaces promotes accessibility and interaction. Each home has been designed to facilitate a seamless transition between private and shared environments, ensuring that while residents benefit from their own personal spaces, they also enjoy the advantages of a nurtured community.

In terms of design, the project emphasizes an array of unique approaches that set it apart from typical suburban developments. The facade utilizes brick as a primary material, which not only reinforces durability but also blends harmoniously with the surrounding context. Timber cladding adds warmth and character to the design, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability by utilizing renewable resources. Large glass windows are strategically placed to harness natural light, enhancing the interiors and reducing energy consumption through thoughtful passive design.

The incorporation of communal gardens, playgrounds, and open spaces plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the social fabric of the neighborhood. These shared amenities are not merely adjuncts to the housing units; they are integral parts of the overall design strategy that encourages physical activity, interaction, and community engagement. By reimagining outdoor spaces as vital extensions of the home, the project invites residents to form bonds with their neighbors, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Another distinctive aspect of the project lies in its emphasis on accessibility to public transport and urban amenities. The location of the development encourages residents to choose sustainable transportation methods, integrating seamlessly into the everyday life of the city. This strategic planning considers the long-term viability of the community while promoting eco-friendly practices.

Moreover, the project advocates for innovative land ownership methods, proposing ways for individuals to pool resources together. This collective approach to homebuilding addresses financial barriers, making it easier for families to achieve home ownership while balancing the communal living aspects that enrich daily life. Such practices can potentially reshape perceptions of suburban living, inviting a new generation to engage in thoughtful residential design that prioritizes community well-being.

To delve deeper into the nuances of "Tell Him He’s Dreamin’," observers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements that form the backbone of this project. By examining these details, one can appreciate the interplay between architecture, community, and sustainability as it unfolds in this engaging residential development. The project stands as a reflective and pragmatic response to contemporary urban issues, exemplifying how innovative architectural ideas can pave the way for improved living conditions in suburban settings. Exploring the intricacies of this project through its presentation promises to yield valuable insights into its design philosophy and future potential.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy