Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Charred Wood Textures and Glass Facades in a Contemporary Roman Housing Block

Author:
David Le masney
Charred Wood Textures and Glass Facades in a Contemporary Roman Housing Block

Project in-detail

With a central circulation core that enhances community interactions, this residential block utilizes charred wood textures and expansive glass facades to create a vibrant living environment within the urban context of Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central circulation core promotes social interaction among residents.
02
Facade integrates solar panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Private balconies enhance outdoor space while maintaining privacy.
04
Green roof contributes to thermal insulation and biodiversity.
05
Flexible communal areas adapt to various resident activities.
The architectural project under analysis is a residential block situated in an urban context in Rome, Italy, encompassing an area of 0.5 hectares. This design aims to create a harmonious blend of private and communal living spaces while responding to the historical and cultural landscape of the city. The architectural layout focuses on optimizing land use while ensuring that the residents experience a balance between privacy and community engagement.

This project serves primarily as a residential complex, aimed at accommodating a diverse range of inhabitants while fostering interactions among residents. The design incorporates various communal spaces and amenities, motivating a sense of community within the urban fabric. The use of contemporary architectural techniques alongside traditional Roman elements highlights the project’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its location.

Integration of Central Circulation and Community Spaces

A notable aspect of this project is the central circulation core that consists of stairs, lifts, and shallow ramps. This design element enhances the efficiency of movement within the building while serving as a social interface for residents. The core is a vital feature that encourages residents to interact as they navigate through the space, supporting both accessibility and community living.

In addition to the core, the project uniquely integrates flexible communal areas, including dining spaces and gathering spots. These spaces have been strategically placed to ensure they are accessible from various points in the building, promoting regular use and community interaction. The apartments are designed with an emphasis on private outdoor spaces, such as balconies and terraces, facilitating personal enjoyment while contributing to the overall communal atmosphere.

Sustainable Design and Material Selection

The project prioritizes sustainability through thoughtful material selection and environmental design practices. Reinforced concrete serves as the main structural element, providing durability and stability. The facade features a glass curtain wall that enhances natural light penetration while integrating solar panels to support energy efficiency.

The design also incorporates a green roof, which contributes to thermal regulation and promotes local biodiversity. The combination of aluminum and anodized bronze accents in the facade adds a modern aesthetic while ensuring long-term resilience against weather.

The architectural outcome presents a unique approach by balancing contemporary requirements with contextual sensitivity. The project's configuration allows for an optimal density of approximately 200 units per hectare, aligning with urban development goals. The integration of private and communal areas within the block effectively redefines the residential experience in an urban context.

For a detailed exploration of this architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to examine the provided presentation. This analysis offers insights into the unique architectural ideas and design approaches that shape the residential experience in this urban setting.
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 16,979 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