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Charred Wood Shingles and Reclaimed Materials Form Coastal Community Living Spaces

Author:
Megan Mendoza
Charred Wood Shingles and Reclaimed Materials Form Coastal Community Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Crafted from reclaimed wood and charred shingles, the design harmoniously integrates coastal elements and sustainable practices to create a vibrant community space focused on eco-friendly living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes reclaimed wood sourced from local deconstructed buildings for sustainable construction.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance and provide a unique aesthetic.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and improves energy efficiency.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system specifically designed for efficient irrigation of community gardens.
05
Integrates biophilic elements, such as indoor plant walls, to promote well-being and connectivity to nature.
The architectural project known as "Green Haven" emerges as a thoughtful response to contemporary challenges surrounding sustainability and community living. Situated in the naturally rich region of Mendocino, California, the design embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship while fostering a sense of belonging among residents. This residential complex presents a harmonious interplay between modern architectural practices and ecological awareness, positioning itself as a model for future living environments.

At the heart of the project lies a concept that prioritizes the relationship between built spaces and their surrounding natural landscapes. By utilizing key principles of biophilic design, "Green Haven" promotes an intrinsic connection to nature, allowing residents to immerse themselves in their environment. The design benefits from its strategic orientation, enabling the use of passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and ample daylighting, all of which enhance the overall living experience while minimizing energy consumption.

Functionally, "Green Haven" serves as a multi-unit residential complex, comprising several interconnected living units that offer both private and communal spaces. The layout encourages social interaction among residents, with shared facilities such as a common kitchen, a living room area, and outdoor communal patios designed to facilitate gatherings. The integration of communal gardens further enhances community spirit, offering spaces for collaboration and shared responsibilities regarding sustainable practices.

In terms of architectural details, the project exhibits a careful selection of materials that echo its sustainability ethos. Locally sourced reclaimed wood is prominently featured throughout the interiors, lending warmth and character while reducing the demand for new materials. Bamboo flooring, known for its rapid renewability, complements the wooden accents, creating a cohesive aesthetic that feels both modern and organic. The incorporation of recycled steel adds structural integrity, while also emphasizing a commitment to resourcefulness and environmental responsibility.

Glass plays a pivotal role in the architectural design, with expansive windows and sliding doors that provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. This extensive use of glazing not only enhances natural light penetration but also invites the outdoors into the living spaces, reinforcing the project’s core principles of connectivity and transparency. High-performance glazing systems ensure adequate thermal insulation, contributing to the overall energy efficiency of the complex.

A noteworthy aspect of "Green Haven" is its green roofing system, which serves multiple purposes. Roof gardens not only enhance the building’s insulation but also create additional recreational areas for residents. This design choice contributes to urban biodiversity by providing habitats for various species, thus aligning with broader ecological goals.

Moreover, "Green Haven" integrates advanced water management techniques through a rainwater harvesting system designed to capture and filter rainwater for irrigation purposes. This system reduces overall water consumption and exemplifies the project’s commitment to sustainable resource management.

The overall architectural language of "Green Haven" balances modern design with natural elements, featuring clean lines, open floor plans, and strategic landscaping. The project's footprint is carefully planned to minimize disruption to the existing environment, adhering to principles of sustainability and respect for the local ecology.

"Green Haven" stands out not only for its sustainable features but also for its unique approach to community living. The design fosters interaction, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose among residents, demonstrating a contemporary understanding of how spaces can influence social dynamics. The thoughtful integration of architectural ideas with practical solutions lays the groundwork for future projects focused on harmonizing residential living with ecological mindfulness.

To explore the intricacies of the architectural designs, the layout of the living spaces, and the comprehensive architectural sections that detail the building’s construction, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation. This exploration will provide valuable insights into the innovative architectural plans and design decisions that drive "Green Haven."
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The Architect’s 
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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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