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Charred Wooden Facades and Hydroponic Green Play Walls Redefining Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Jae woo Lee
Charred Wooden Facades and Hydroponic Green Play Walls Redefining Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

With its innovative use of charred wooden facades and integrated hydroponic systems, this urban housing solution transforms communal living by seamlessly blending sustainability and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates hydroponic systems within living spaces for sustainable agriculture.
03
Features green play walls that promote community interaction and engagement.
04
Designed with flexible layouts to adapt to varying residential needs.
05
Emphasizes rainwater harvesting to support ecological sustainability.
The Play Block project is a contemporary architectural endeavor that emphasizes adaptive housing and communal living. Strategically crafted to accommodate the evolving needs of urban residents, this project reflects a commitment to sustainable design and a responsive architectural approach. It represents more than just a physical space; it embodies a vision of integrated living that prioritizes community interaction and environmental sustainability.

At its core, the Play Block project is designed as a modular housing solution that seamlessly blends private and shared spaces. The architecture underscores the importance of flexibility in residential arrangements, targeting different demographics such as singles, couples, and families. The use of a grid-based design allows for an efficient layout that maximizes the use of space while maintaining a sense of openness. Large windows characterize the facade, facilitating natural light penetration and enhancing indoor comfort, which is critical in urban environments where daylight may be limited.

The materiality of Play Block is thoughtfully selected to combine performance with aesthetics. The aluminum frame provides structural support while ensuring a lightweight composition that can withstand various environmental conditions. Accompanying this framework are sustainably sourced wood panels, which contribute warmth and texture to the overall design, promoting energy efficiency. Perhaps most distinctively, the incorporation of grass blocks and green play walls demonstrates an innovative approach to integrating nature within the architectural form. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also serves vital ecological functions, supporting biodiversity and improving air quality.

A significant feature of Play Block is its commitment to sustainability, as demonstrated through rainwater harvesting systems and hydroponic gardens that are integrated into the building's framework. These systems illustrate a forward-thinking approach to resource management, enabling residents to engage with their environment actively. Public green spaces are strategically interspersed throughout the project, reinforcing the importance of social interaction and outdoor engagement in urban living. The project’s layout encourages residents to form connections, fostering a sense of community that is crucial in high-density areas.

One of the unique design approaches of Play Block is its concept of evolving structures, which highlights how architecture can adapt over time. The dual-timeframe design visualizes the building's potential transition from a present state to a future iteration, illustrating a continuum of growth and adaptability. This adaptive strategy not only aims to meet current residential needs but also prepares the space to accommodate future changes in societal dynamics.

The interaction between private and public spaces is another cornerstone of the Play Block project. By designing communal areas that are easily accessible and inviting, the project promotes a dynamic social atmosphere where residents can engage with one another. The playful yet functional design of features like green play walls adds an interactive element that enriches the living experience, allowing for self-expression and community messaging.

The architecture of Play Block aligns with modern values of sustainability and inclusivity. It challenges traditional notions of housing by prioritizing variety in living arrangements and connecting residents to their environments. Through an emphasis on flexibility and ecological responsibility, this project demonstrates a sincere investment in the future of urban living.

Readers interested in understanding the full scope of the Play Block project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections for detailed insights into its design. Engaging with these elements will reveal the intricate architectural ideas that underpin this multifaceted endeavor, showcasing its potential to reshape approaches to urban housing.
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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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