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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Façades Create Engaging Community Spaces in Flexible Modular Housing

Authors:
Jugal Ahuja, Zalmy Meyer
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Façades Create Engaging Community Spaces in Flexible Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wood shingles and expansive glass façades, this modular housing solution in London offers flexible living spaces that prioritize community engagement and well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modules can be creatively arranged to optimize site-specific layouts and maximize social interaction.
02
Incorporation of community workshops and shared gardens fosters resident engagement and skill development.
03
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a distinct aesthetic appeal.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to construction speed and structural stability.
05
Courtyard designs promote natural light and ventilation, improving the overall living experience.
This architectural design project encapsulates an innovative approach to affordable housing, specifically addressing the complex issues of low-income and homeless populations. The design places emphasis on fostering both individual and communal well-being, blending functionality with an acute awareness of the social challenges within urban settings. The project stands as a testament to sustainable architectural practices, aiming to create spaces that not only shelter residents but also promote mental health and community interaction.

The project is conceived as a modular housing scheme, with individual units structured around a core dimension of ten by ten feet. This modular design allows for significant flexibility in arrangement, creating opportunities for stacking and rotation to enhance the utilization of space. This unique configuration not only maximizes the land use but also facilitates the creation of inviting communal courtyards that encourage social engagement among residents. These spaces are integral to the overall design, enabling residents to interact in a shared environment while fostering a sense of belonging and community.

In terms of function, the project is designed to serve a dual purpose. On one hand, it provides essential living spaces for individuals and families in need of housing, offering a variety of unit types that cater to diverse demographic needs. On the other hand, the design incorporates significant communal facilities, including kitchens, gardens, and workshop areas, directly supporting the residents' physical and mental well-being. This dual focus acknowledges that housing extends beyond mere shelter; it encompasses the broader aspects of livability, social wellness, and community integration.

Central to the architectural concept is an understanding of the human experience within the built environment. The emphasis on natural light, achieved through the strategic use of glass facades, enhances the psychological aspect of living spaces, making them feel open and inviting. Additionally, aluminum screens are employed to manage sunlight and privacy, striking a balance between individual needs and communal openness. The incorporation of green roofs further adds to the project's sustainability ethos, contributing to thermal insulation and fostering biodiversity.

The architectural design showcases a thoughtful material selection aimed at durability and environmental responsibility. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural material, providing the strength necessary for the modular design while maintaining the flexibility required for various configurations. This careful choice of materials aligns with contemporary sustainable practices, ensuring that the project is not only functional but also considerate of its environmental impact.

One of the project's unique design approaches lies in its emphasis on adaptive reuse and community involvement. By involving residents in the design process, the project reinforces the importance of agency and participation in shaping one’s living environment. This aspect is critical in enhancing the residents’ connection to their homes and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards their community. The incorporation of multifunctional spaces promotes engagement and collaboration among residents, aligning with broader socio-economic goals.

As a whole, this architectural project exemplifies a considered response to the pressing issue of affordable housing. Its focus on mental and physical wellness, coupled with sustainable practices and community engagement, highlights a necessary shift in how architecture approaches social challenges. Such design practices not only provide solutions to immediate housing needs but also lay the groundwork for more resilient communities.

For those interested in understanding the depth of this architectural endeavor, exploring the project presentation will reveal comprehensive architectural plans, detailed architectural sections, and conceptual architectural designs that illustrate the innovative ideas driving this project forward. Delving into these elements will provide valuable insights into how architecture can positively influence living conditions and enhance community well-being.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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