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Charred Wood Facades and Hexagonal Layouts Enhance Community Living in Urban Environment

Authors:
Mariana katherine Cortes lopez, Angie vanessa Milian gaviria, Maria alejandra Carvajal garcia, Jhordan enrique Garnica martinez
Charred Wood Facades and Hexagonal Layouts Enhance Community Living in Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Charred wood facades paired with a hexagonal layout create an inviting urban housing solution that fosters community interaction while addressing the need for affordable living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Hexagonal unit design maximizes space efficiency and encourages social interaction among residents.
03
Incorporates cellulose insulation for improved energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Pedestrian pathways integrated with greenery create a seamless transition from private to communal areas.
05
Utilizes galvanized steel profiles for structural durability and longevity in an urban environment.
The architectural project in Brent, London, addresses the urgent need for affordable housing amidst the city's escalating property costs. This initiative aims to create a community-centric environment through a thoughtful architectural design that balances individual privacy with communal living spaces. The project employs a modular approach, allowing for flexibility in residential configurations, where each housing unit can accommodate varying family sizes.

The development comprises multiple interconnected modules that enhance cooperation among residents while providing necessary amenities. The strategic layout ensures easy navigation among living spaces, common areas, and green spaces. By integrating pedestrian pathways and green buffers, the project effectively manages the urban context and improves resident connectivity to surrounding neighborhoods.

The project distinguishes itself through its unique typologies and innovative design strategies. Each housing unit incorporates two primary configurations: a smaller type designed for two residents and a larger version that accommodates three. This dual-typology layout responds directly to different household needs, facilitating adaptability without compromising aesthetics. The use of hexagonal shapes promotes efficient use of space and fosters natural interaction among residents, reducing the perception of isolation often associated with urban living.

Material selection plays a critical role in the project, emphasizing sustainability and durability. The incorporation of wood cladding provides warmth to the structure, while galvanized steel frames contribute to overall stability. Fiber cement sheets offer versatility in design, allowing for variations across the facade. Additionally, cellulose insulation enhances the thermal performance of the units, thus promoting energy efficiency.

A focus on communal spaces is a hallmark of this project. Shared gardens and recreational areas encourage social interactions and foster a sense of community. The design incorporates visual corridors that connect the interior and exterior environments, ensuring that residents can enjoy views of green spaces from their living areas. This integration of nature within the urban fabric is not only aesthetically pleasing but also supports mental well-being and community engagement.

The architectural presentation of this project offers further insights into its layout and design rationale. Readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans and sections to appreciate the intricacies of the design. Reviewing architectural designs and ideas will provide a deeper understanding of how this project effectively tackles the challenges of urban living while promoting community and sustainability.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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