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Charred Wood Shingles and Laminated Timber Create a Distinctive Community Hub in Krakow’s Green Landscape

Authors:
AZALÍA ABIGAIL MAY CEBALLOS, MARIA ALEJANDRA VILLAJUANA SAAVEDRA, KAREN ALEJANDRA ROSETE CHAN, MARIA ALEJANDRA VILLAJUANA SAAVEDRA
Charred Wood Shingles and Laminated Timber Create a Distinctive Community Hub in Krakow’s Green Landscape

Project in-detail

With a façade adorned in charred wood shingles and a structure built from laminated timber, this community hub in Krakow harmonizes seamlessly with its lush surroundings, providing a welcoming space for social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
The structure is composed of cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and thermal efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes spatial dynamics while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
04
Interactive outdoor areas are designed to encourage community engagement and social interaction.
05
Natural light is optimized through strategically placed glazing, creating a bright, inviting atmosphere indoors.
The architectural project in Krakow, Poland, is a testament to the thoughtful integration of the built environment with natural elements, prioritizing both functionality and user experience. This design seeks to embody the concept of "Roots," symbolizing strength and stability while promoting a connection to nature. The project showcases a unique blend of forms and materials, resulting in a space that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves the needs of the community.

The primary function of the project is to serve as a communal hub within a lush park setting. The architectural design emphasizes engagement with the outdoor space, featuring both individual and shared areas that facilitate social interaction. The main structure is composed of laminated wood and glass, both of which contribute to the overall identity of the design. Laminated wood is chosen for its structural integrity and environmental benefits, providing an inviting contrast to the more transparent glass elements that allow for natural light to penetrate deep into the building. This combination creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere, essential for social gatherings and community events.

Key elements of the project include a winding pathway that weaves through the park, connecting various facilities and directing pedestrian flow. The design incorporates grassy mounds and communal areas such as playgrounds, benches, and gardens, fostering a sense of place and belonging. The architectural footprint is intelligently articulated, comprising a series of angular forms that mimic the organic nature of roots, creating a harmonious relationship between the architecture and landscape. The fluid spatial arrangement encourages exploration and movement, emphasizing the vitality of the environment.

An important aspect of this architectural design is its approach to transparency and openness. The use of large glass panels on the east elevation not only facilitates a sense of connection between the interior and exterior but also increases daylighting, thereby contributing to energy efficiency. The strategic layout further capitalizes on natural light, creating spaces that change dynamically throughout the day, enhancing the user experience. The north and south elevations play with solid and void, generating a rhythm that draws the eye and provides variety in the visual experience.

In exploring this project, one could identify the thoughtful integration of environmentally sustainable practices, with a significant focus on energy efficiency through double-glazing technology and the careful selection of materials. This ensures that the building not only minimizes its ecological footprint but also serves as a model for future developments aiming for sustainability.

The project’s unique design approach lies in its emphasis on community engagement, as well as its ability to harmoniously blend architectural forms with the existing landscape. By prioritizing user experience, the design encourages social interactions and creates a dynamic community space that complements the natural surroundings.

For those interested in delving deeper into the design intentions and functionalities, it is recommended to explore the project presentation, specifically the architectural plans, sections, and architectural ideas that illustrate the thoughtful composition behind this endeavor. Engaging with these elements will provide further insights into the design's nuances and its vision of fostering a strong connection between people and nature within an urban context.
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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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