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Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Elements Crafting Flexible Community Spaces

Authors:
Paul Cooksey, Nelize Van Wyk, Ben Wesley, Anna Braunack Myer
Charred Wood Shingles and Precast Elements Crafting Flexible Community Spaces
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Employing charred wood shingles and precast concrete, the design revitalizes an existing structure to serve as a versatile community hub, fostering collaboration among local artisans and businesses.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and an aesthetic continuity with the natural environment.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while offering a warm interior atmosphere.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for increased roof height, accommodating spacious interiors without compromising the footprint.
04
Flexible workspace configurations support a range of activities from collaborative projects to private meetings.
05
Sustainable building practices include low-VOC materials and energy-efficient systems integrated throughout the design.

The community hub in Adelaide, South Australia, exemplifies a contemporary architectural design focused on repurposing an existing structure to function as a multifunctional space for local artisans and businesses. This project aims to create an environment that fosters collaboration, innovation, and community engagement by providing versatile workspaces and social areas.

The design integrates principles of adaptive reuse, addressing the need for flexible spaces within the context of a changing local economy. By retaining structural components and enhancing them with modern materials and designs, the project minimizes environmental impact while revitalizing the area. Natural light is maximized through the use of large glass facades and strategically placed skylights, promoting a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Unique Design Approaches

This project adopts a community-centric approach by involving local stakeholders throughout the design process. The intention is to ensure that the space meets the diverse needs of the users, which range from freelance professionals to small business owners. Adaptive reuse allows for flexibility in space utilization, granting occupants the ability to modify work environments according to their distinct requirements. This adaptability is reflected in areas designed for private meetings, collaborative work, and informal gatherings.

The architectural materials consist of a combination of brick, precast concrete, and glass, chosen not just for aesthetic appeal but also for their durability and performance. The project's emphasis on low-VOC paints and finishes contributes to a healthier indoor environment, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs and energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels, promotes environmental stewardship.

Functional Spaces

Within the hub, various designated areas serve distinct functions. Administrative spaces are designed with user flexibility in mind, accommodating changing needs without requiring significant renovation. Community spaces support social interaction and engagement, fostering a sense of community ownership and pride.

The design recognizes the importance of outdoor spaces, including gardens and recreational areas that promote wellness and enhance the user experience. By integrating social and work environments, the project aims to facilitate interaction and collaboration among users, contributing to a cohesive community atmosphere.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design, we encourage readers to explore the project presentation. This exploration provides a comprehensive view of the architectural ideas and methodologies that define this community hub, illustrating its potential impact on the local context.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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