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Charred Wood Shingles and Brick Facades for Intergenerational Living Spaces

Authors:
Keith James Evans, Amy Leanne F Blencoe, James Oliver Salman, Aston Richardson Oakes
Charred Wood Shingles and Brick Facades for Intergenerational Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and a robust brick facade, the design creates adaptable living environments that foster interaction between seniors and the broader community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes spatial efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates communal gardens designed to foster intergenerational relationships.
05
Employs extensive glazing to enhance natural light and visual connectivity.
Cromwell House represents a thoughtful architectural response to the challenges of senior living in urban settings. Located in Winchester, UK, the project is designed to cultivate community engagement and reduce feelings of isolation among older adults. The architecture focuses on intergenerational interaction, merging residential living with communal facilities that enhance both physical and mental well-being. The design utilizes a modular approach, balancing individual privacy with shared spaces that encourage social connectivity.

Unique Design Approaches to Community Interaction

A key feature of Cromwell House is its commitment to fostering community through shared environments. The design includes communal gardens, activity rooms, and dining areas, all strategically situated to facilitate engagement among residents. Generous use of glass in the facades maximizes natural light and creates visual transparency between indoor and outdoor spaces, thereby promoting a sense of openness and accessibility. Moreover, the integration of green roofs supports biodiversity while providing areas for residents to engage with nature.

Innovations in Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural design of Cromwell House employs a selection of materials that not only serve functional requirements but also enhance the project’s aesthetic presence. The extensive use of brick provides structural integrity and connects the building to its historical context, while timber accents in the interiors introduce warmth and comfort. The landscape design further incorporates sustainable elements, such as native plant species, which contribute to environmental efficiency and minimize maintenance needs.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of Cromwell House, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of its design innovation and functionality.
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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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