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Charred Wood Cladding and Expansive Glass Facades in Sustainable Student Housing

Author:
Konstantin Manukyan
Charred Wood Cladding and Expansive Glass Facades in Sustainable Student Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and expansive glass facades, the design maximizes natural light and connectivity while addressing the need for affordable student housing near York University.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and waste.
03
Features large communal patios to promote student interaction and outdoor living.
04
Designed with expansive glass facades to maximize natural light and views.
05
Implements a bent A-frame design to optimize structural performance and aesthetics.
The York Village Expansion project focuses on enhancing affordable housing options for students at York University in Toronto. Its design integrates existing residential structures with modern architectural elements, resulting in a cohesive living environment. The project addresses the pressing need for affordable accommodation while promoting community interaction and safety among residents.

The architectural layout is organized to foster a sense of community through shared spaces. Key components include large communal areas designed for socializing and recreation, such as common rooms and outdoor patios. These spaces not only encourage interaction among residents but are also strategically designed to enhance visibility, which contributes to a sense of security.

Unique Design Approaches

The York Village Expansion utilizes a two-part structure, harmonizing the old with the new. This approach leverages adaptive reuse principles, allowing for the preservation of existing buildings while introducing modern amenities. The material palette consists of brick, glass, wood, and metal, chosen for their functional and aesthetic qualities. Brick maintains continuity with the surrounding context, while large glass windows facilitate natural light and create visual connections to the exterior environment.

The safety and security of residents are crucial aspects of the design. Incorporating “eyes-on-the-street” principles, the building layout promotes visibility in common areas, which deters potential security risks. Emergency features, such as strategically placed emergency phones, further enhance resident safety.

The project also embraces sustainability through thoughtful landscaping that incorporates native vegetation, bolstering biodiversity. Energy-efficient materials and construction methods align with sustainability standards, contributing to a lower environmental impact throughout the building’s lifecycle.

Adaptive reuse, community focus, and sustainability set the York Village Expansion apart from conventional housing projects. These elements not only satisfy current demands for student accommodation but also create a harmonious living space that encourages connection. To gain a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shaped this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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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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