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Charred Wood Elevations and Cross-Laminated Timber Framework in Sustainable Urban Community Spaces

Author:
Paula Costas
Charred Wood Elevations and Cross-Laminated Timber Framework in Sustainable Urban Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a cohesive urban community space that prioritizes sustainability and user adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to maximize volume and natural light distribution.
04
Integrates natural ventilation systems to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
05
Includes green roofs to promote biodiversity and provide thermal insulation.

The project at hand presents a modern architectural design characterized by its innovative approach to spatial organization and materiality. Set in a significant geographical location, this design exemplifies a blend of functionality and aesthetics, addressing both environmental considerations and user needs. The architectural framework encompasses several key elements that contribute to its overall impact, including layout, structural composition, and the integration of outdoor spaces.

A defining aspect of this project is its emphasis on sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials and methods. Elements such as natural ventilation and maximizing daylight are carefully incorporated to enhance energy efficiency. The design also emphasizes flexibility, ensuring that spaces can adapt to various uses over time. The building's configuration presents an interplay between private and communal areas, fostering interaction among users while providing necessary privacy.

The project stands out through its innovative use of local materials, carefully chosen to reflect the surrounding context. Materials such as reclaimed wood, textured concrete, and glass facades create a harmonious relationship with the environment. This deliberate selection not only adds visual interest but also supports local craftsmanship and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Furthermore, the architectural design prioritizes the user experience by creating inviting entrances and open floor plans that facilitate movement and connectivity. The incorporation of green roofs and vertical gardens enhances biodiversity while providing occupants with a connection to nature, promoting well-being.

The building’s unique form responds to its site-specific conditions, including topography and climate. Strategic shading devices and operable windows are utilized to control natural light while reducing heat gain. These features exemplify a thoughtful approach to climate responsiveness, ensuring that the structure remains comfortable throughout the seasons.

In summary, this architectural project exemplifies a keen awareness of both functionality and environmental impact. The integration of innovative design strategies, sustainable materials, and user-centric approaches contributes to its distinctive character. Those interested in further understanding this design may wish to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs presented in the project documentation. These elements provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this meaningful and relevant project in the contemporary architectural landscape.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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