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Charred Timber Facade and Vertical Gardens Enrich Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Jorge Cobo Susperregui, Isabel Aurora Donoso Sequeiros
Charred Timber Facade and Vertical Gardens Enrich Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Featuring a distinctive charred timber facade and lush vertical gardens, the design enhances urban living while providing versatile communal and residential spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens on multiple levels to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and superior thermal performance.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and maximizes natural light.
05
Integrates community-focused amenities that encourage social interaction and outdoor activities.
The architecture project presented showcases a thoughtful integration of design principles and functionality tailored to its specific context. Located in a vibrant urban setting, the project embodies a seamless blend of contemporary aesthetics with practical usability, reflecting the needs and desires of its users and the surrounding community. The overall design represents a commitment to sustainable architecture, with careful consideration given to the environmental impact of material choices and building techniques.

At the core of the design is a clear functional purpose. The project serves as a multi-use space, accommodating not just residential units but also communal areas that foster interaction and engagement among users. This multifunctionality is a key aspect of its architectural narrative, ensuring that the development meets various needs, from individual privacy to collective gatherings. The design cleverly utilizes open and flexible layouts that allow for adaptability over time, catering to evolving lifestyles and demographics.

The design approach taken here is particularly unique with respect to its materiality. The palette includes elements such as locally sourced timber, glass, and stone, which work harmoniously to create a sense of warmth and connection to the environment. The use of timber not only adds an inviting aesthetic but also enhances thermal performance, aligning with contemporary sustainability practices. The extensive use of glass invites natural light deep into the interiors, fostering a sense of openness while providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. This transparency blurs the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor environments, creating a cohesive experience for occupants.

Important details in the project design are reflected in the careful attention to scale and proportion. The building's height has been meticulously crafted to complement the existing urban fabric, ensuring that it neither overwhelms nor diminishes the surrounding structures. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs and vertical gardens serves not only as an aesthetic feature but also as a functional element that promotes biodiversity and enhances urban ecology.

Incorporating sustainable practices, the design features passive ventilation systems, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient systems that not only reduce the building's carbon footprint but also lower operational costs for occupants. Such thoughtful integration of these architectural ideas showcases how modern design can address both ecological concern and user comfort.

The unique aspect of this project lies in its ability to reflect the cultural context of its location while pushing forward innovative architectural solutions. The design engages with the community through public spaces such as plazas and gardens, designed to encourage outdoor activities and social interactions. This emphasis on communal spaces aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, further establishing a sense of belonging within the urban environment.

The architectural plans and sections of the project offer a deeper insight into the intricate details of the layout and structural design, revealing how thoughtful spatial organization contributes to the overall functionality of the building. Similarly, exploring the architectural designs unveils the creative processes that shaped the aesthetic decisions and material choices, providing a richer understanding of how the project addresses both form and function.

As this project continues to evolve, its relevance to modern architectural discourse and urban living remains significant. For those interested in exploring further, I encourage you to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to appreciate the intricate balance achieved between innovative architectural ideas and the practicality required for contemporary urban life.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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