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Charred Timber Facade With Passive Solar Integration In Compact Urban Living Solution

Author:
Pinar Yalin
Charred Timber Facade With Passive Solar Integration In Compact Urban Living Solution

Project in-detail

Employing a charred timber facade and innovative passive solar features, this compact urban dwelling redefines efficient living for a growing community of students and young professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a charred timber facade for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space.
04
Integrates passive solar elements to maximize energy efficiency.
05
Designed with versatile foldable furniture to enhance living space adaptability.
The Tansu Box project is an architectural endeavor located in Braunschweig, Germany, designed to address the growing need for functional yet compact living spaces within an urban environment. Emphasizing efficiency and adaptability, this project represents a response to contemporary housing challenges faced by a predominantly young demographic, including students and professionals seeking accessible accommodation. The Tansu Box concept draws inspiration from traditional Japanese Tansu boxes, renowned for their multifunctionality and space-saving capabilities. This fundamental idea is translated into a modern architectural context, where each unit is designed not only to serve as a home but also to foster community interaction.

The project incorporates compact residential units of approximately 87 square meters, underscoring the need for optimized living spaces in urban settings. Its architectural design significantly focuses on spatial efficiency, ensuring that each area serves multiple purposes without compromising comfort or livability. The units are thoughtfully arranged to encourage neighborly interactions while providing private spaces that residents can personalize to their needs.

One of the unique aspects of the Tansu Box lies in its material selection, which enhances both functionality and visual appeal. The predominant use of wood in the structural elements and exterior cladding creates a warm, inviting aesthetic while aligning with sustainable design principles. Additionally, mineral wool insulation is carefully integrated into the walls to ensure thermal efficiency, reducing energy consumption and promoting a smaller ecological footprint. A steel frame supports the outer walls, which provides durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. Inside, the use of veneered MDF for finishes contributes to a modern, polished look that balances aesthetic quality with practicality. Large glass windows serve to connect indoor living spaces with the outdoor environment, flooding the interiors with natural light and fostering a sense of openness.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the Tansu Box design, with features that promote energy efficiency and environmentally conscious living. Passive solar design elements are complemented by solar panels on the rooftop, reflecting an ongoing commitment to renewable energy sources. These sustainable practices are essential in contemporary architectural design, particularly in urban settings where resource consumption must be carefully managed.

The integration of the Tansu Box with its surrounding landscape is also notably intentional. Pathways leading to individual entrances facilitate easy access and encourage a sense of community among residents. This approach not only enhances the functionality of the design but also makes it a welcoming addition to the neighborhood.

Adaptability emerges as a critical theme within the Tansu Box project, allowing for personalized living experiences in a compact footprint. Residents benefit from foldable furniture and smart storage solutions that are deeply embedded in the design, ensuring that spaces remain organized and accommodating. This flexibility caters to various lifestyles, promoting an innovative approach to modern urban living while redefining how space can be utilized.

In sum, the Tansu Box project embodies a forward-thinking architectural philosophy that addresses the practical needs of today’s urban dwellers. By merging classical design principles with modern requirements, it illustrates how architecture can effectively respond to pressing housing issues while considering sustainability and community needs. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its design.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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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
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