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Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Materials Shape a Community-Focused Urban Hub

Authors:
Katie Burrell, Abigail Vanderlek, Elise Wang
Charred Wood Shingles and Natural Materials Shape a Community-Focused Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and natural materials, the design creates an inclusive urban hub that fosters community interaction and addresses the needs of diverse populations through adaptable living and shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve construction efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Includes integrated communal gardens to promote neighborhood interaction and environmental stewardship.
05
Employs a phased development approach to adapt to evolving community needs.

The project "All Roads Lead to Home" is an architectural initiative located in EUR (Esposizione Universale Roma), a historically significant area originally planned for the 1942 World’s Fair. This design addresses the contemporary global issues of migration and integration, aiming to create an inclusive urban environment that fosters community among diverse cultural backgrounds. The project emphasizes the integration of communal spaces, housing, and facilities that respond to the changing dynamics of urban populations.

The design functions as a multi-use development, featuring residential units, community centers, marketplaces, and recreational areas. Emphasis is placed on creating spaces that promote socialization, interaction, and the building of relationships among residents. This architecture is part of a larger dialogue on urban renewal and serves to reshape the narrative of public and private spaces within the context of migration.

The project employs a phased design approach to facilitate systematic development tailored to immediate needs, eventual integration, and long-term sustainability.

Unique Design Approaches to Integration and Community
The architectural design relies on a combination of traditional and contemporary aesthetics, creating a cohesive narrative linking past and present. Structures are inspired by historical Roman architecture while incorporating modern materials and technologies. This blend fosters a sense of continuity and cultural resonance, promoting an inclusive atmosphere. The design focuses on public-facing areas, incorporating artistic elements that serve as cultural touchpoints. These areas are enhanced with greenery and outdoor spaces designed to encourage interaction and community engagement.

The proposal integrates co-living units catering to various demographics, focusing on adaptability and flexibility in housing solutions. This approach addresses the needs of both migrants and local residents, encouraging shared experiences and resources. The arrangement of communal facilities facilitates social integration, offering space for cultural exchange and collaboration.

Architectural Elements and Materials
Important elements of the project include various communal spaces designed for flexibility and accessibility. Community centers, markets, and green areas are strategically positioned to optimize interaction among residents. The choice of materials plays a crucial role in defining the project’s identity. Concrete, glass, and metal are utilized alongside intricate patterns inspired by diverse cultural heritages, promoting inclusivity while enhancing the aesthetic appeal.

Sustainability is a core aspect, with the integration of natural elements and green design principles aimed at ensuring environmental responsibility. Each phase of development is crafted to resonate with the community's needs while supporting an overarching goal of resilience and adaptability in urban living.

For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and a detailed breakdown of architectural ideas. These elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches taken throughout the design process.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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