Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Create a Community Center That Emphasizes Natural Light and Flexibility

Author:
Yang Jibeom
Charred Wood Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Create a Community Center That Emphasizes Natural Light and Flexibility

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the community center effortlessly merges sustainability with a welcoming atmosphere, offering flexible spaces designed for diverse social interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing weather resistance and aesthetic texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural integrity while reducing construction time.
03
A series of large glazed openings foster a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
The flexible interior layout accommodates a variety of community activities and events.
05
Sustainable design features include rainwater harvesting systems integrated within the landscape design.
The project at hand is a purposeful architectural endeavor that harmoniously blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Strategically located in an urban context, this design serves as a vibrant community center aimed at fostering social interaction and inclusivity. The architecture visually represents a commitment to modern community values, emphasizing open spaces and accessibility for all individuals.

The building is structured around a central gathering space that encourages community engagement. This multifunctional area is complemented by various rooms that serve diverse purposes, such as meeting spaces, activity rooms, and support facilities for local initiatives. The design promotes a collaborative environment, allowing for both organized activities and informal gatherings, thereby enhancing the sense of community.

One of the project's notable features is its use of natural light, achieved through expansive windows and skylights. By prioritizing transparency, the architecture creates a welcoming atmosphere that visually connects the interior to the surrounding environment. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the space but also contributes to energy efficiency, reducing reliance on artificial lighting throughout the day. The thoughtful integration of outdoor spaces, including landscaped gardens and sheltered patios, facilitates a seamless transition between interior and exterior areas, further enhancing the user experience.

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the project's overall character. A combination of durable concrete, warm timber, and high-performance glass has been carefully selected to ensure longevity while promoting an inviting feel. The concrete provides structural integrity and resilience, while the wooden accents add warmth and a sense of welcome, making the space not only functional but also comfortable. The glass elements reduce barriers, allowing natural light to flood the interior and fostering a strong connection with the outdoors.

The design approach reflects a contemporary understanding of sustainability. Incorporating elements such as green roofing and rainwater harvesting systems highlights the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship. These systems not only enhance the ecological performance of the building but also serve as educational tools for the community, promoting awareness around sustainable practices. Additionally, energy-efficient systems are integrated into the architecture to minimize the carbon footprint, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to modern building design.

Unique to this project is its emphasis on flexibility and adaptability. The interior layout is designed to be reconfigurable, accommodating a range of activities from workshops to community events. This adaptability affords the community center the ability to respond to evolving needs and encourages a vibrant calendar of events that can engage different demographics throughout the year. Consideration was also given to acoustics and privacy in the design of event spaces, ensuring that various activities can occur simultaneously without interference.

Furthermore, the project embodies a sense of place, drawing inspiration from local cultural and historical context. Elements of local architecture have been woven into the design narrative, fostering a sense of belonging among users. This attention to context not only enhances the building's relevance but also strengthens community ties, encouraging residents to engage with the center as a vital part of their daily lives.

As the project continues to evolve, it invites exploration and engagement from the community and those interested in contemporary architectural practices. Observers are encouraged to delve into the intricate architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that reveal the thoughtful considerations behind every detail. Through this exploration, one can further appreciate the blend of functionality and aesthetics that defines this community-centered project, showcasing innovative architectural ideas aimed at fostering social interaction and sustainability.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
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
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy