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Charred Wood Shingles and Prefabricated Concrete Create Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Francis Mak, Jackson To, Eunice Cheung
Charred Wood Shingles and Prefabricated Concrete Create Flexible Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and prefabricated concrete, this innovative residential complex redefines urban living through its flexible layouts and communal spaces designed to foster community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for lightweight structural support and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates communal green spaces to encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Employs prefabricated construction techniques to reduce on-site assembly time and costs.
The Vertical Estate project in Sydney represents a thoughtful response to the increasing demand for affordable housing within an urban context. This architecture initiative emphasizes a vertical living format, which not only maximizes land use efficiency but also integrates a variety of living arrangements to cater to diverse community needs. The design reflects the realities of contemporary urban life, turning conventional residential models into adaptable spaces that enhance living experiences.

At its core, the project functions as a multi-dimensional residential complex that amalgamates private and communal spaces. By stacking residential units, Vertical Estate creates a network of interconnected homes that offer flexibility and choice for families, couples, and individuals. The approach acknowledges the evolving nature of households, allowing residents to modify their living environments as personal circumstances change. This adaptability is a key feature of the overall project design, ensuring that it meets both current and future residential demands within the city.

One of the distinctive aspects of the Vertical Estate is its emphasis on community interaction. The architectural design integrates several communal areas, such as green spaces, recreational facilities, and shared amenities. These spaces are thoughtfully positioned within the complex to encourage gatherings and social exchanges among residents. The result is a living environment that fosters a sense of belonging, creating opportunities for relationships to develop and enhancing social networks.

Material selection within the project also plays a critical role in its overall character and functionality. The use of concrete provides the necessary structural integrity, while glass facades enhance transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors. This choice not only contributes to energy efficiency but also creates a visual connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Steel is applied throughout the construction for its strength and efficiency, enabling a streamlined building process that reduces construction timelines. The incorporation of wood in communal areas brings warmth and a natural aesthetic, promoting a welcoming atmosphere. The combination of these materials thoughtfully reflects the balancing act between durability and comfort in modern architectural practice.

Unique design approaches throughout the Vertical Estate further contribute to its identity. The project adopts a modular framework, where residential units are designed to be easily prefabricated. This method not only facilitates faster on-site assembly but also lowers overall costs, making it a more affordable option for future residents. Each unit can be arranged in various configurations, allowing for personalization based on individual or family needs. This emphasis on flexibility and customization aligns seamlessly with the contemporary lifestyle of urban dwellers.

The geographical location of the Vertical Estate within Sydney enhances its viability as a residential solution. Positioned in a vibrant urban area, residents benefit from proximity to essential services and amenities, including public transport, education centers, and recreational options. The design seamlessly fits within its context, creating an urban fabric that resonates with the surrounding community while contributing positively to the city's architectural landscape.

Exploring elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide further insights into the innovative strategies used in the planning and execution of the Vertical Estate project. The careful consideration of space, materiality, and community-oriented design offers a comprehensive view of how architecture can respond to pressing societal needs while promoting a harmonious living environment. Interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation for a more detailed exploration of its architectural ideas and outcomes.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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