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Charred Wood Facade and Diagonal Modular Spaces Defining A Community-Centric Living Environment

Authors:
Yurii Chmelyk, Lynn Damalie Kudiza Bulyaba, Astha Ajay Pawar, Khandsuren Baldorj
Charred Wood Facade and Diagonal Modular Spaces Defining A Community-Centric Living Environment

Project in-detail

Constructed with a charred wood facade and a diagonal modular layout, the design creates adaptable living spaces that enhance community interaction while prioritizing safety and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a charred wood facade for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a diagonal modular design that maximizes natural light and flexibility.
03
Incorporates a bunker facility for resident safety during emergencies.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency.
05
Integrates a dual-story café to foster community interaction and engagement.

## Project Overview

Located in a district enriched by historical landmarks including the Yaroslav the Wise Academy of Law, the Korolenko Library, and Karazin University, the residential design seeks to integrate modern living amenities while respecting the architectural heritage of the area. Its conceptual framework prioritizes functionality and aesthetic value within the urban context.

### Modular Apartment Configuration

The building features an innovative layout with each apartment composed of six modular components, divided diagonally to optimize space utilization. Private areas are oriented to the northeast, while public functions face southwest, enhancing natural light exposure. This design not only supports flexible living arrangements but also allows for minimal structural walls, facilitating potential future renovations.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Integration

The material palette chosen for the construction emphasizes durability and harmony with the surrounding architectural environment. Key materials include:

- **Reinforced Concrete**: Provides structural integrity and resilience.
- **Cement-Sand Mortar**: Ensures stability between key structural components.
- **Steel**: Used in emergency exits, contributing to safety without compromising weight considerations.
- **Wood**: Incorporated in interior finishes to enhance comfort and warmth.

The strategic use of these materials aligns with contemporary needs while acknowledging the historical context of the neighborhood.

### Security Considerations and Communal Features

In light of current societal concerns, the design includes elevated security measures such as balcony shutters for protection against potential threats and steel emergency staircases for efficient evacuation. A dual-story café complements the residential area, designed to encourage community interaction while maintaining a cohesive architectural dialogue with the living spaces. The café features a brutalist façade and strategically located access points that cater to both public and private operational needs.

### Interior Design and Functionality

Internally, the apartment configuration highlights a minimalist aesthetic with clean lines and a monochromatic color palette that resonates with the exterior design. Organized communal areas foster social interaction, while adaptable spaces accommodate varying resident needs. Notable features include:

- **Bunker Facility**: A basement-level refuge designed for resident safety during emergencies.
- **Integration of Greenery**: Outdoor spaces enhance the residential experience, creating a direct connection with nature.

This detailed approach to spatial organization, material selection, and security responds directly to the dynamics of contemporary urban life while respecting the historical significance of its surroundings.

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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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