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 Reinforced Glass Define a Versatile Community Hub

Author:
Paul Boldeanu
Charred Wood Shingles and Reinforced Glass Define a Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and reinforced glass, the design creates a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, serving as a dynamic community hub that fosters social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and improve structural integrity.
03
Features a distinctive bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates a community garden space designed to promote biodiversity and social interaction.
05
Includes large expanses of glass that provide unobstructed views of surrounding landscapes.
The project under analysis represents a thoughtful and innovative approach to modern architectural design, reflecting both the needs of its users and the distinctive characteristics of its geographical context. This architectural endeavor is situated in a location that provides a rich backdrop, influencing its design and functionality in significant ways. The structure embodies a harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal and practical utility, fulfilling its intended purpose while engaging with the surrounding environment.

The primary function of the project is to serve as a multi-use space that accommodates a variety of activities and gatherings. The layout incorporates flexible spaces designed to cater to diverse needs, promoting interaction and community involvement. Open areas are seamlessly integrated with transitional spaces, allowing for a natural flow between indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice enhances the user experience, fostering connections among people while encouraging engagement with the natural surroundings.

Attention to materiality plays a key role in the project's success. The selections underscore sustainability and durability while enhancing the overall visual language of the building. A careful combination of materials such as reinforced concrete, local stone, and large expanses of glass is used to create an inviting yet robust structure. The use of glass not only maximizes natural light but also offers a transparent connection to the exterior, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The material palette is deliberately chosen to reflect the local architectural context, promoting a sense of place and continuity with existing structures while allowing for a contemporary interpretation.

The unique design approaches employed in this project add significant value. The architects have skillfully incorporated passive design strategies that minimize energy consumption and enhance occupant comfort. Features such as strategically placed overhangs and shading devices protect against harsh solar exposure, while natural ventilation systems facilitate airflow throughout the building. This thoughtful consideration of environmental factors demonstrates a commitment to sustainable architecture, aligning with modern principles of eco-friendliness and energy efficiency.

Landscape integration emerges as another essential aspect of the design. The project thoughtfully incorporates green spaces, promoting biodiversity and providing areas for relaxation and recreation. These landscaped areas extend the usable space of the building, offering refuge from urban density while contributing to the overall aesthetics of the site. The planting scheme is chosen to be low-maintenance and to support local ecology, highlighting a broader environmental awareness.

The architectural layout is characterized by a variety of spatial experiences. Entry points are designed to create welcoming thresholds, encouraging exploration and interaction from the moment visitors arrive. The interior layout strategically organizes spaces according to their functional requirements, ensuring that high-traffic areas are distinct yet accessible. Community-oriented aspects such as gathering areas and multi-purpose rooms are easily identifiable, promoting social interactions among users.

In addition to its functional aspects, the design reflects a deeper narrative that connects the building with the culture and heritage of its location. The architectural language used throughout the project pays homage to local traditions while embracing modernity, creating a dialogue between past and present. This balance illustrates a dedication to promoting cultural continuity alongside innovation in the built environment.

Throughout the project’s development, a clear vision has guided the design decisions, resulting in a comprehensive architectural solution that meets contemporary needs without compromising on contextual relevancy. It stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to enhance community life and foster a sense of belonging among its users.

For those interested in exploring this project further, examining the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide additional insights into the depth of thought and intention behind this remarkable endeavor. Engaging with these materials can help illuminate how this project successfully merges aesthetic considerations with functional requirements while remaining sensitive to its environment.
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