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Charred Wood Facade Integrated With High-Performance Glass Envelops Community Hub

Author:
Manuel Mosquera
Charred Wood Facade Integrated With High-Performance Glass Envelops Community Hub

Project in-detail

Combining charred wood cladding with high-performance glazing, this community hub enhances user interaction and environmental efficiency through its thoughtfully designed open spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates high-performance glazing for optimal energy efficiency and natural light.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that ensure structural stability with reduced environmental impact.
04
Includes integrated green spaces that promote biodiversity and community interaction.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces and enhance aesthetic appeal.

The architectural project under analysis is a contemporary multi-functional space designed to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings while addressing community needs. The design focuses on enhancing user experience through thoughtful spatial organization and innovative use of materials. This project serves as a hub for social interaction and cultural activities, promoting engagement among visitors and residents alike.

The primary structure is characterized by its open floor plan, facilitating flexibility and adaptability for various functions, such as exhibitions, workshops, and community gatherings. Large expanses of glazing allow natural light to permeate the interiors, creating a lively atmosphere while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. The strategic placement of windows also offers visual connections to the exterior landscape, reinforcing a sense of place and belonging.

This project showcases a unique blend of materials that contribute to its identity. Key materials include high-performance concrete, locally sourced timber, and energy-efficient glass. The use of concrete provides durability and structural integrity, while timber adds warmth and texture to the spaces, enhancing user comfort. The incorporation of eco-friendly glass not only improves energy efficiency but also facilitates passive solar heating and cooling, aligning with sustainable design practices.

The project's architectural language is marked by clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic, establishing a contemporary character that resonates with its urban context. The façade treatment employs a rhythm of materials, with alternating sections of concrete and timber, creating visual interest while delivering functional benefits. This design choice supports thermal insulation and contributes to reduced energy consumption.

The integration of green spaces within the project is a distinguishing aspect that sets it apart from similar designs. Courtyards and landscaped areas are thoughtfully situated to provide not only recreational opportunities but also natural ventilation and biodiversity. These elements contribute positively to the urban ecosystem and enhance the overall well-being of users.

Attention to the human scale is evident throughout the design. The circulation areas are designed to encourage movement and interaction, with thoughtful placement of seating and gathering spaces that invite collaboration and community engagement. The changes in ceiling height and material finishes help define different zones within the open areas, fostering distinct yet cohesive experiences.

In addition, the project adopts advanced technologies to optimize operational efficiency. Smart building systems are integrated for lighting control, HVAC management, and water conservation, ensuring that the facility functions sustainably while minimizing its environmental impact. This forward-thinking approach reflects the project's commitment to combining aesthetic value with practical performance.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the project's comprehensive layout and unique features, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin this thoughtfully designed space.

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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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