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Charred Wood Exterior Meets Glass-Enveloped Art Studios in a Community-Centric Living Space

Author:
Skarlet Escobar
Charred Wood Exterior Meets Glass-Enveloped Art Studios in a Community-Centric Living Space

Project in-detail

Charred wood cladding envelopes expansive glass studios, creating a harmonious balance between nature and creativity within a vibrant community living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes dedicated art studios with large, strategically placed windows for optimal working conditions.
05
Promotes community interaction through flexible, multifunctional spaces designed for collaboration.
The architectural project presents a thoughtfully designed space that seamlessly blends functionality with creativity. Situated in a striking natural landscape, this project caters to both residential and artistic needs, making it a dynamic environment for its occupants. The structure embodies the concept of a painter's frame, a metaphor that emphasizes the interaction between art and the built environment. Rather than serving solely as a dwelling, the architecture promotes a decentralized community experience focused on creativity and collaboration.

The overall design consists of multiple interconnected areas, including private living quarters, shared community spaces, and dedicated workshops. Family houses designed for comfort provide privacy while maintaining proximity to the central common area, which encourages social interaction among residents. This layout not only supports daily living but also cultivates a sense of belonging within the community.

At the heart of the project is a focus on creative pursuits. The workshops for painting and carpentry are designed with expansive windows, allowing for ample natural light and unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery. This connection to nature is intentional, as it serves to inspire artistic endeavors and foster an environment where creativity can flourish. The building’s orientation is carefully considered to enhance these views, ensuring that residents feel constantly engaged with their environment.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s design, with an emphasis on environmentally friendly and locally sourced materials. The use of OSB structural plywood, zinc-plated steel, glass wool for insulation, and tempered glass are significant highlights that contribute to the building’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. These materials not only ensure structural integrity and energy efficiency but also evoke a warm and inviting ambiance within the interior spaces.

One key feature of the design is its unique approach to creating transitional spaces. These areas are deliberately planned to accommodate various activities, whether for informal gatherings, artistic collaboration, or personal reflection. This flexibility allows the space to adapt to the ever-changing needs of the residents while reducing the rigidness typically associated with standard residential architecture. The inclusion of pivot doors further facilitates smooth transitions between different areas, enhancing the overall flow of the design.

Additionally, the innovative structural elements are a defining characteristic of this project. By framing the living and working spaces, the design reinforces its philosophical grounding in the relationship between art and architecture. This framing device not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also symbolizes the notion of capturing moments within an artistic narrative, encouraging residents to view their lives and activities through the lens of inspiration.

Overall, the project resonates with a commitment to community and creativity, inviting residents to engage in artistic exploration while enjoying the comforts of home. The architectural ideas presented here challenge traditional notions of living spaces, offering a refreshing perspective on how architecture can foster a vibrant and interconnected community. For those interested in exploring the intricate details of this architectural endeavor, a closer look at the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches and thoughtful features incorporated throughout the project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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