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Charred Wood Cladding and Green Roof Integration in a Versatile Community Center

Authors:
Ricky Doshi, Vatsal Vazir
Charred Wood Cladding and Green Roof Integration in a Versatile Community Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding alongside a sustainable green roof, the design seamlessly integrates natural elements to serve as a multifunctional community center that encourages social interaction and ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
A green roof system supports local biodiversity and manages stormwater.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint and improve construction efficiency.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes space and elevates natural light throughout.
05
Outdoor gathering areas integrate seamlessly with landscaped gardens for community engagement.

The architectural design project presented focuses on a community center in an urban environment. The intent of the project is to foster social interaction and community engagement, addressing the needs of diverse user groups while creating a harmonious integration with its surroundings. The building is strategically located to serve as a hub for various activities, catering to both recreational purposes and local events.

The architectural design emphasizes an open and welcoming layout, utilizing natural light and promoting environmental sustainability. A series of interconnected spaces comprise the main structure, each dedicated to specific functions, such as a multipurpose hall, classrooms, and informal meeting areas. The design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that all areas are navigable for individuals of all abilities.

The structure’s materiality plays a crucial role in its aesthetic and functional characteristics. A combination of locally sourced materials is employed, including:

1. **Reinforced Concrete**: Used for structural elements, providing durability and long-term stability.
2. **Glazed Facades**: Expansive glass panels enhance natural light penetration while offering views of the surrounding environment, creating a sense of openness.
3. **Wood Cladding**: Applied to specific sections of the exterior, introducing warmth and a tactile quality to the façade.
4. **Green Roof System**: Incorporates vegetation to improve insulation and manage stormwater, contributing to the site’s ecological footprint.

This project stands out in its approach to blending functional design with sustainability. The integration of the green roof not only aids in insulation but also provides a space for community gardening initiatives. The design encourages environmentally-conscious practices among users, promoting awareness and education about sustainable living.

Another unique aspect of this project is its community-centric design strategy. The layout fosters informal interaction by clustering multipurpose spaces together, encouraging spontaneous gatherings and collaboration. The project incorporates outdoor areas, including landscaped gardens and seating areas, promoting outdoor activities while enhancing the site’s aesthetic value.

The building’s architectural plans reveal a meticulous approach to integrating functionality with user experience. Architectural sections demonstrate thoughtful consideration of natural light and ventilation, optimizing the indoor climate. The careful design of each space—whether it be the acoustic treatment in the multipurpose hall or the modularity in classroom configurations—ensures versatility and adaptability to various events.

In essence, this community center represents a commitment to enhancing urban life through thoughtful architecture. It serves as a benchmark for future projects in the realm of community-oriented design, prioritizing both functional needs and sustainable practices. For a deeper exploration into the project’s architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, further examination of the project presentation is encouraged.

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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
competition now

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