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Charred Timber Facades and Precast Concrete Integration in a Sustainable Urban Workspace

Authors:
Shi-yen Wu, Bo-ruei Huang
Charred Timber Facades and Precast Concrete Integration in a Sustainable Urban Workspace

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred timber facades and precast concrete elements, the design creates a versatile urban workspace that responds to environmental considerations while enhancing community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system to minimize water consumption.
05
Integrates movable partition walls to allow flexible workspace configurations.

The architectural design project presents a cohesive blend of functionality and aesthetics, situated within a specific geographical context. The primary objective of this project is to provide a versatile space that meets the requirements of its intended use while responding sensitively to its surroundings. The architecture is informed by its site, community needs, and environmental considerations, ensuring that it stands as both a practical solution and a refined piece of design.

The building's exterior is marked by a thoughtful selection of materials, including precast concrete panels, glass facades, and metal cladding. These materials have been chosen not only for their durability but also for their ability to harmonize with the local architectural language. The use of large glass sections allows for ample natural light to penetrate the interior, creating a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The integration of green roofs and vegetated walls further enhances the sustainability of the project while contributing to the biodiversity of the area.

Unique Design Strategies

A notable feature of this design is its focus on modularity and adaptability. The architectural layout allows for the reconfiguration of interior spaces to accommodate various activities, showcasing a dynamic approach to spatial organization. This flexibility is supported by movable partition walls that allow different configurations, catering to potential future uses.

In addition, the project prioritizes energy efficiency through its design choices. Solar panels integrated into the roof surface are positioned to maximize energy capture, while strategically placed overhangs prevent excessive heat gain during summer months. The incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems reduces reliance on municipal water sources, further enhancing the building's sustainability profile.

Innovative Use of Space

The interior layout emphasizes an open-plan design that fosters collaboration and communication. Workspaces are interspersed with communal areas, such as lounges and meeting rooms, which are designed to encourage interaction among occupants. This arrangement reflects an understanding of contemporary work culture, promoting a sense of community within the building.

Moreover, the careful attention to acoustics within the design addresses the challenges of noise commonly found in open-plan settings. Acoustic panels made from recycled materials have been installed to reduce sound transmission, creating a more pleasant working environment.

The project sets itself apart through its commitment to environmental stewardship, design flexibility, and community engagement. Its thoughtful architectural strategies not only fulfill functional requirements but also reflect an awareness of the project's impact on its surroundings.

For a deeper understanding of the various components of this architectural design, including architectural plans and sections, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. The detailed visual and technical materials provide further insights into the innovative ideas and design outcomes that define this noteworthy project in contemporary architecture.

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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
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