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Charred Wood Facade Meets Expansive Green Roofs in Urban Community Living

Author:
David Le masney
Charred Wood Facade Meets Expansive Green Roofs in Urban Community Living

Project in-detail

With a charred wood facade that seamlessly integrates expansive green roofs, this residential complex redefines urban living by fostering community engagement through carefully designed private and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a charred wood facade for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and spatial dynamics.
03
Expansive green roofs integrated with communal gathering spaces enhance biodiversity.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainable building practices.
05
Commercial spaces on the ground level foster community interaction and local economy.
The project presented is a residential complex thoughtfully designed to integrate into the historic framework of Rome while addressing the needs of modern urban living. This architectural endeavor reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary design practices, sustainability, and community engagement. The architecture serves not merely as a shelter but as a vibrant environment that encourages interaction, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

This residential project embodies the idea of community-oriented living, offering various spaces that promote social connectivity. At its core, the design emphasizes inclusivity through the incorporation of both private apartments and shared communal areas. The ground level is particularly notable, featuring commercial spaces that invite local businesses, creating a dynamic interaction between the residents and the surrounding city. This integration demonstrates the architect's commitment to revitalizing the area economically and socially.

The layout of the building is characterized by a central circulation core, which plays a crucial role in the overall functionality of the project. This core facilitates easy movement between floors and connects living spaces with communal areas. The design encourages residents to engage with one another, making it conducive to spontaneous interactions while still providing private settings. Each apartment is planned to maximize natural light and ventilation, ensuring that residents enjoy comfortable living conditions in their own spaces.

One of the key design approaches involves the careful selection of materials. The use of concrete throughout the structure not only provides durability but also allows for the creation of spacious, open layouts that cater to contemporary lifestyles. This is complemented by a glass curtain wall that enhances energy efficiency through natural illumination while also establishing a visual connection with the outside environment. The anodized aluminum framing around glass elements allows for flexibility in design, with features such as adjustable louvers that aid in ventilation and light control.

Adding to the project’s environmental credentials is the inclusion of green roofs, which serve multiple functions. These green spaces contribute to urban biodiversity, provide insulation to reduce energy costs, and offer residents access to nature amidst the urban landscape. The thoughtful integration of these features demonstrates the project's commitment to sustainability and the quality of life for its residents.

Unique to this design is the approach toward creating variability in the residential units. There are different apartment layouts, accommodating a diverse demographic, which can include families, couples, or individuals. This flexibility is a strategic response to the urban context, allowing the project to serve various housing needs while maintaining cohesive architectural language.

The attention to detail in the design further enhances its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Communal areas are designed not just for utility but as inviting spaces for residents to gather, host events, or simply relax. Wood finishes in these common zones add warmth and character, creating an inviting atmosphere that contrasts with the more industrial materials used in the structural framework.

The visual composition of the building reflects its context as well—ranging from the bustling city street outside to the serene communal gardens within. This duality allows the project to maintain a dialogue between the vibrancy of urban life and the tranquility of private dwellings.

Those interested in exploring this project more thoroughly are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and varied architectural designs that illustrate the depth of thought behind the project. This comprehensive analysis captures the essence of how contemporary architecture can harmonize with historical settings while paving the way for sustainable community living. Engagement with the project presentation will yield further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that shape this residential complex in Rome.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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