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Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Flexible Community Hub

Author:
Alejandro Reyes
Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Flexible Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wood shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates natural materials to create a flexible community hub that fosters connection and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
03
Designed with a flexible layout that adapts to various community activities and events.
04
Includes a green roof that serves as a community garden, promoting local biodiversity.
05
Utilizes large glazed facades to create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
This architectural project embodies a thoughtful response to its environment while delivering both functional and aesthetic value. Situated in a context marked by a rich cultural backdrop, the project serves a dual purpose as a public space and a hub for community engagement. The design emphasizes transparency, interaction, and integration with nature, highlighting the architect’s commitment to creating spaces that foster social connectivity.

The primary structure demonstrates a fluidity in form characterized by sweeping lines that elegantly guide the eye. This approach unifies the building with its surroundings, effectively breaking down barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large, expansively glazed facades allow natural light to permeate the interiors, creating a warm ambiance that enhances the user experience. The generous use of glass not only facilitates visual connections with the landscape but also encourages occupants to engage more deeply with their environment.

At the heart of the project is a multifunctional space designed to accommodate a variety of activities. This flexibility is crucial, as it allows for changing community needs over time. The architectural layout incorporates distinct zones that cater to different functions—performance areas, exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, and informal gathering spots. Translucent partitions enable the seamless reconfiguration of these spaces, offering adaptability without compromising on privacy or acoustics.

The selection of materials plays a pivotal role in the project’s overall aesthetic and functionality. Predominantly utilized are locally sourced materials including sustainably harvested timber, which evokes a sense of warmth and connection to nature, and molded concrete that provides structural robustness and longevity. The careful combination of these materials not only contributes to the building's visual identity but also enhances its sustainability credentials. The design avoids excessive reliance on energy-intensive materials, opting instead for eco-friendly alternatives that align with modern architectural practices.

A notable feature of the project is its green roof, which serves multiple functions. Beyond providing insulation and reducing stormwater runoff, the roof is designed as a community garden, promoting biophilic design principles and encouraging occupants to engage with the ecosystem. This innovative approach to landscaping blurs the lines between architecture and nature, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and enhancing biodiversity in urban settings.

Innovative energy solutions have been integrated into the design, underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of solar panels maximizes energy efficiency, reducing the reliance on non-renewable resources. The building’s orientation is carefully calculated to optimize solar gain while minimizing glare, resulting in a balanced internal climate throughout the year.

In looking at the project holistically, it represents more than just a physical structure; it embodies an aspiration to enrich community life and promote sustainability through responsible design. By fostering social interaction and creating adaptable spaces, the architecture encourages a spirit of collaboration and engagement. Each aspect of the project, from its impact on the landscape to its internal functionality, emphasizes a considered approach to contemporary architectural challenges.

For those interested in further exploring this architectural endeavor, delving into the architectural plans and sections will provide deeper insights into the design strategies employed. Reviewing these elements will reveal the nuances that contribute to the overall coherence and effectiveness of the project, enriching the understanding of its spatial dynamics and architectural ideas.
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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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