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Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facades Intertwined in a Sustainable Living Community Over Water

Authors:
Nicholas juandito Pangaribuan, Sheryl Sheryl, I gede dharma Putra, Wishwin Nathania
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facades Intertwined in a Sustainable Living Community Over Water

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and expansive glass facades, this sustainable living community dynamically integrates modular housing and public spaces directly over water, creating an engaging urban habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wood shingles that enhance fire resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to create a strong yet lightweight structure that supports modular living.
03
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the architecture, promoting sustainable water management practices.
04
Public plazas are strategically positioned to foster community engagement and interaction among residents.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.
The Living Bridge architectural project presents an innovative solution to the growing challenge of urban housing in Melbourne, Australia. This project blurs the lines between transportation infrastructure and residential living, illustrating a unique approach to integrating housing with public space. The Living Bridge is designed not just as a structural passage over water but as a vibrant community hub that supports sustainability and encourages social interactions among its residents.

Functionally, the primary objective of The Living Bridge is to create a series of modular housing units along the structure, transforming it into a living ecosystem. These units cater to a diverse demographic, offering various configurations that meet the needs of individuals, families, and communal activities. Each housing unit is equipped with amenities that enable comfortable living while maintaining a connection to the surrounding environment.

One of the project’s key elements is its focus on sustainability, embodied through carefully designed hydroponic systems that empower residents to grow their own food. By incorporating natural agriculture into the living spaces, this design approach promotes a self-sustaining lifestyle, enabling residents to engage more directly with their food sources while fostering a sense of community through shared gardening experiences.

The Living Bridge also prioritizes public interaction by integrating communal spaces. These areas are thoughtfully arranged to encourage activities such as walking, socializing, and engaging in recreational pursuits. The idea is to create an accessible environment that seamlessly marries the individual needs of residents with the larger community’s social fabric.

Water management systems are a noteworthy feature of the project. The design includes advanced solutions for rainwater harvesting and recycling, enhancing the ecological sustainability of the development. By utilizing these resources efficiently, The Living Bridge minimizes its overall water consumption, setting a standard for future urban developments.

The architectural design employs a thoughtful selection of materials, focusing on both function and aesthetic appeal. Reinforced concrete serves as the backbone of the structure, providing the necessary strength and durability for a bridge. Extensive use of glass introduces natural light into the living environments, creating a sense of openness and connection to nature. Wood is used for interior elements and outdoor decking, offering warmth and a tactile quality to the spaces. Metal components are also integral in providing structural support while reflecting a contemporary design aesthetic.

What truly distinguishes The Living Bridge is its dual role as infrastructure and community space. Unlike traditional bridges, which typically serve a singular purpose, this project reimagines the potential of urban structures. By serving as a nexus for residential life, the design showcases innovative architectural thinking that responds to modern urban challenges.

As with any architectural endeavor, there are many layers to The Living Bridge that merit exploration. From its architectural plans that illustrate the spatial arrangement to architectural sections that detail the structure’s integrity, careful examination of the design elements reveals the depth of thought and planning that has gone into its conception. For those interested in contemporary architectural ideas, a visit to the project presentation can provide valuable insights into its innovative features and overall vision. This exploration not only enhances understanding but also sparks inspiration for future urban projects that prioritize community living and sustainability.
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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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