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Charred Wooden Accents and Community-Focused Living in a Mediterranean Urban Setting

Author:
Elizabeth Timms
Charred Wooden Accents and Community-Focused Living in a Mediterranean Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood elements that evoke Roman heritage, this urban dwelling redefines community living through adaptable spaces and engaging shared amenities aimed at fostering connections among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, reflecting traditional fire-resistant techniques in a modern context.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency while enhancing thermal insulation.
03
A rooftop garden includes native Mediterranean plants, promoting biodiversity in the urban environment.
04
Common areas feature a flexible layout that adapts to various social and artistic activities for residents.
05
The building's facade combines modern materials with historical Roman architectural references, ensuring contextual harmony.
The architectural design project known as "Modern Rome" embodies a contemporary interpretation of urban living, seamlessly intertwining the rich cultural heritage of Rome with modern functional needs. This project reimagines a historical building within the vibrant Monti neighborhood, focusing on creating spaces that foster community interaction while catering to the requirements of a diverse demographic, particularly millennials and young professionals. The design is not only a response to the rising demand for affordable housing but also a proposal to enhance the quality of urban life through collaborative living arrangements.

At its core, the project represents an innovative solution to the challenges of urbanization. It seeks to establish a sense of belonging among residents by promoting shared amenities and communal spaces, encouraging social connections in a city often characterized by isolation due to fast-paced living. The thoughtful integration of co-living spaces, artistic areas, and recreational facilities reflects an understanding of contemporary lifestyle demands, where flexibility and community engagement are paramount.

The architectural design features a careful blend of historical and modern elements. The facade of the building pays homage to traditional Roman architecture, showcasing rusticated corners and Doric columns that echo the region's classic motifs while incorporating contemporary materials and aesthetics. This design approach respects the historical context and enhances the visual appeal of the structure, allowing it to harmonize with its surroundings.

Internally, the layout emphasizes openness and multifunctionality. Key areas include shared workspaces capable of supporting artistic endeavors, relaxation zones for leisure activities, and amenities that promote well-being, such as gyms and spaces for meditation. The residential units are designed in three distinct types—small, medium, and large—each catering to different lifestyle preferences while maintaining an emphasis on comfort and functionality. This variety ensures a diverse tenant base, capable of fostering a vibrant community.

The outdoor amenities are particularly noteworthy. The rooftop garden features a swimming pool designed in the spirit of Roman baths, a bocce court that connects residents with traditional leisure activities, and community gardens that encourage collaboration among residents. These outdoor spaces not only provide areas for relaxation and recreation but also instill a sense of ownership and pride in the community.

A broad palette of materials reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability and aesthetic quality. The use of concrete ensures structural integrity, while glass elements facilitate natural light flow, connecting indoor and outdoor environments. Wrought iron accents add durability and character, and natural stone provides a tactile connection to the site's historical legacy. Such material choices not only aim to enhance the building's aesthetic but also emphasize longevity and a reduced environmental impact.

What sets this project apart is its unique design philosophy that prioritizes collaboration and cultural engagement. It is not just a collection of living spaces but a carefully curated environment that encourages residents to interact and contribute positively to one another’s lives, harkening back to traditional Roman communal experiences while adapting them for modern needs. This holistic approach to architectural design reflects a deep understanding of spatial dynamics and social structures, creating a harmonious blend of function and community.

The Modern Rome project underscores the importance of architecture as a key player in redefining urban living in Rome. Its innovative take on co-living and community-oriented spaces provides a blueprint for future developments that wish to balance heritage with contemporary necessities. For those interested in exploring this architectural endeavor further, details about architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas are available for review, offering deeper insights into the creative vision behind this ambitious project.
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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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