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Charred Wooden Panels and Reflective Glass Elevate Urban Living in Mixed-Use Development

Authors:
Kim Yejin , Hyeseok Kim
Charred Wooden Panels and Reflective Glass Elevate Urban Living in Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

With charred wooden panels harmonizing with reflective glass surfaces, this mixed-use development redefines urban spaces by integrating community-oriented public areas with sustainable living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance while creating a distinct visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized not only for sustainability but also for their notable structural efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration while minimizing energy use throughout the building.
04
Public spaces integrate vertical gardens, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality in the urban environment.
05
The project's flexible layout allows for the reconfiguration of communal areas to adapt to changing community needs.
The Urban Paradigm is a thoughtfully designed architectural project located in the heart of Downtown Metropolis, USA. This development represents a significant leap forward in urban architecture, emphasizing sustainability, community engagement, and aesthetic harmony within the urban fabric. Designed by [Architect's Name] and completed in 2023, the project embodies a modern approach to living in densely populated areas, integrating functionality with environmental responsibility.

At its core, the Urban Paradigm serves multiple functions. It combines residential units with commercial spaces, creating a vibrant community hub that fosters interaction among its inhabitants and visitors alike. The layout cleverly organizes living spaces and commercial activities to promote a sense of connectivity, ensuring that residents have easy access to essential services while encouraging socialization and collaboration in communal areas.

The design itself is characterized by a thoughtful arrangement of staggered terraces and green roofs, skillfully accommodating the natural topography of the site. This configuration not only optimizes the building’s footprint but also contributes to effective rainwater management and energy efficiency. The architecture incorporates expansive public spaces at ground level, featuring plazas that host local markets and artistic displays, further enhancing the sense of community within the development. These spaces are inviting and accessible, encouraging interaction among diverse groups of people and emphasizing the project’s role as a social connector in the urban landscape.

Architecturally, the Urban Paradigm stands out due to its innovative facade design, which incorporates a combination of high-performance reflective glass and organic wooden panels. The reflective glass surfaces allow the buildings to engage with the skyline, reducing glare while maximizing natural light within the interiors. The use of reclaimed wood contributes warmth and texture, anchoring the project to the local context and promoting sustainability.

Internally, the layout features an open-plan design that enhances versatility. By maximizing the flow of natural light through strategically placed skylights, the living environments not only feel spacious but also reduce the reliance on artificial lighting, supporting the project’s energy-efficient goals. The materials selected throughout the Urban Paradigm reflect a commitment to sustainability and durability, including reinforced concrete for foundational aspects, natural stone for public flooring, and low-VOC paints for interiors.

What is particularly noteworthy about the Urban Paradigm is its adherence to biophilic design principles. The incorporation of greenery through vertical gardens and landscaped rooftops not only beautifies the environment but also improves air quality, promotes biodiversity, and provides recreational opportunities for residents. This connection to nature acts as a vital element in enhancing the overall well-being of its inhabitants, aligning with contemporary approaches to healthy urban living.

Furthermore, the project's architectural solutions exemplify adaptability. The design considers future urban demands, featuring flexible spaces that can be reconfigured for various uses over time. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the Urban Paradigm remains relevant and responsive to the ongoing evolution of urban life.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of this architectural design, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, visiting the project presentation offers deeper insights into its multifaceted components and the thought processes that shaped its development. The Urban Paradigm not only sets a standard for urban architecture but also invites discussion on the future of sustainable living in cities.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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