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Charred Wood Facades and Steel Framework in a Vertical Micro-Community Design

Authors:
Tsz Wai Yvonne Yuen, Doi Yee Lau
Charred Wood Facades and Steel Framework in a Vertical Micro-Community Design

Project in-detail

With charred wooden facades enhancing its aesthetic appeal and a vertical stacking system maximizing space efficiency, this micro-community housing solution fosters social interaction while providing practical living arrangements in a dense urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive aesthetic while enhancing fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enable quick assembly and structural stability.
03
The vertical stacking of units optimizes spatial efficiency in a dense urban environment.
04
Interior terraces encourage community interaction and maximize natural light.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the design for sustainable resource management.
This architectural design project presents an innovative solution to urban housing challenges, particularly suited for densely populated areas such as Hong Kong. The design focuses on the concept of a micro-community, incorporating thoughtful approaches to space utilization and fostering social engagement among residents. The project is characterized by its modular approach to housing units, allowing for adaptability in function and layout.

At its core, this project represents a commitment to efficiently address the high demand for housing in urban environments while enhancing quality of life. Each unit is designed to provide comfort and practicality without compromising on the necessary living space. The layout considers both individual needs and the collective dynamics of a community, achieving a balance that enables diverse demographics, including singles, couples, and families.

The design features minimum footprint micro-units that advocate for a simplistic lifestyle. Each unit is meticulously devised to maximize functionality within a limited space, ensuring all essential amenities are accessible. Additionally, family units and specialized configurations for the workforce highlight the project's versatility. By embracing the idea of communal living, the architecture encourages interaction, making neighborhoods more vibrant and inclusive.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project, reflecting a blend of sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the backbone of the structure, lending durability and strength, while steel is incorporated for enhanced support and safety in railings and frameworks. Wood elements add a subtle warmth and invite a sense of home, particularly in private spaces. Large glass windows are strategically positioned throughout the design, establishing a connection to the exterior environment and allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. The overall material palette is both practical and visually cohesive, supporting the architectural narrative of the project.

One of the unique design approaches is the stacking configuration of the units. This vertical organization not only maximizes the site’s usage but also provides opportunities for natural ventilation and light. The communal spaces interspersed throughout the vertical layout serve to foster inclusivity, providing residents with areas to engage with one another. Shared terraces and corridors create informal meeting points, enhancing community bonding and reducing the isolation often felt in urban settings.

Moreover, the design cleverly integrates sustainability features, such as rainwater harvesting systems and green terraces. These elements underline a commitment to environmental stewardship while promoting a healthier living environment. The architectural language effectively responds to the urban context by spiraling upwards, reflecting an understanding of the challenges presented by urban density.

The project stands out for its effort to reconcile private and public spaces, with each unit incorporating exterior areas for personal use, thus promoting a lifestyle that values both privacy and community interaction. The fluid circulation spaces throughout the building design are developed to minimize accessibility concerns, encouraging residents to interact spontaneously as they navigate their home environment.

As a whole, this architectural design project exemplifies a thoughtful response to modern urban living challenges. The blend of innovative design, materiality, and the creation of communal spaces highlights the project's intention to promote a sense of belonging. To explore the full potential and intricacies of this architectural design, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation. By reviewing elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, one can gain a deeper understanding of the ideas and intent that underpin this noteworthy project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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