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Charred Wooden Elements and Tactile Spaces Transforming Courtyard Living in Urban Housing

Author:
Ruth Suarez
Charred Wooden Elements and Tactile Spaces Transforming Courtyard Living in Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden accents and a thoughtfully layered courtyard design, the architecture creates a sensory-friendly urban dwelling that seamlessly blends privacy with community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable construction practices.
03
Features a layered courtyard that fosters interaction while ensuring privacy.
04
Integrates sensory-friendly elements specifically designed for visually impaired residents.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
The project "Occluded Projection" presents a thoughtful architectural endeavor designed to enhance living conditions in Havana, Cuba. It addresses the complexities of urban living, particularly within the intimate context of traditional courtyard homes, while considering the diverse needs of its residents, including those with visual impairments. The design embodies the notion of visibility and privacy, producing a space that fosters community interactions without sacrificing individual comfort.

This architectural project emphasizes the significance of courtyards as crucial elements of Havana's residential architecture. By serving as communal hubs, courtyards offer a blend of security and interaction. In "Occluded Projection," the courtyard becomes a focal point around which the design is organized, reinforcing the traditional essence of urban living while introducing modern sensibilities. The layout encourages a fluid relationship between the internal and external environments, resulting in a spatial experience that is both intimate and engaging.

Functionally, "Occluded Projection" is designed to accommodate the diverse lifestyles and needs of its inhabitants. The core of the design features a central courtyard that is surrounded by a series of interconnected rooms. These spaces are thoughtfully arranged to create varying degrees of openness and enclosure, allowing for privacy when needed while promoting social engagement. This duality is particularly relevant in creating a home that serves both sighted individuals and those with visual impairments, ensuring that everyone can navigate the space comfortably and confidently.

The architectural design incorporates a range of materials that contribute to its aesthetic and functional attributes. Concrete is employed for structural support, offering resilience that aligns with Havana's urban environment. Large expanses of glass allow natural light to permeate the interior while providing visually engaging reflections and connections to the outside world. Wood accents are used in specific areas, such as railings and frames, to introduce a sense of warmth and tactile richness. The careful selection of these materials not only enhances the visual appeal but also reinforces the project's commitment to creating a sensory-friendly environment.

One of the unique design approaches in "Occluded Projection" is the emphasis on layers within the spatial organization. These layers serve to both demarcate different areas of the home and to create visual and experiential connections among them. The use of projection lines—conceptually and architecturally—ensures that spaces transition smoothly from one to another, encouraging exploration and interaction. Additionally, the walls are designed to function as flexible boundaries, allowing them to adapt to the varying privacy needs of the residents while still promoting a sense of openness.

The project stands out not only for its architectural considerations but also for its ability to respond to the cultural and social dynamics of Havana. By integrating traditional elements with modern design strategies, "Occluded Projection" creates a living environment that respects the past while looking to the future. This comprehensive approach to design enables the project to serve as a model for future architectural endeavors that prioritize inclusivity and sensitivity to the surrounding context.

Readers interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the innovative ideas behind "Occluded Projection." This project not only reflects contemporary architectural practices but also reinforces the importance of thoughtful design in addressing the diverse needs of urban residents. Delving into the specific details of this architecture can provide valuable insights into how effective design can shape both physical spaces and social interactions within a community.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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