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Charred Wooden Shingles Anchoring Resilient Modular Housing Along the Waterfront

Authors:
Jackson William Franks, Zeynep Gul, Godwin Cyrus Golocan Gagaza
Charred Wooden Shingles Anchoring Resilient Modular Housing Along the Waterfront

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles create a visually distinct façade for modular housing designed to enhance community resilience and interaction along the waterways of Makoko.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Modular units allow for flexibility in family configurations and adaptive living.
03
The design incorporates floating pathways for improved access and mobility on water.
04
Sustainable energy practices are integrated, including rainwater harvesting systems.
05
Locally sourced materials promote community involvement and environmental sustainability.
Awujo-Omi is an architectural project located in the Makoko area of Lagos, Nigeria. This design addresses the socio-economic challenges of the community while emphasizing a strong relationship with the surrounding water ecosystem. The project comprises modular housing units and communal spaces that foster social interaction and community development.

The intent of Awujo-Omi is to provide a resilient housing solution that is adaptable to the needs of its occupants. The architectural design integrates local materials and techniques, promoting sustainability and affordability. By elevating the structure and incorporating water management systems, the project responds to the area's vulnerability to flooding while enhancing the local living environment.

Community-Centric Design Approach

Awujo-Omi uniquely focuses on fostering communal ties through design. The architecture includes community hubs that serve as gathering spaces for residents, enhancing social cohesion. The modular housing units are thoughtfully designed to allow for flexibility in occupancy, accommodating various family sizes and configurations. This adaptability is a critical aspect of the design, positioning the project as a solution for diverse socioeconomic backgrounds within the community.

The layout prioritizes accessibility to water transport, which is central to the daily lives of Makoko residents. Floating pathways and docks are integral to the design, facilitating movement while ensuring connectivity within the community. The raised structures take advantage of their proximity to water, promoting an environmentally-responsive lifestyle.

Sustainable Material Utilization

The material choices in Awujo-Omi are significant for both ecological and cultural reasons. The project employs locally sourced materials, including carbonized timber and concrete, to construct resilient structures that withstand the humid tropical climate. Additionally, sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting systems, are integrated into the architecture, promoting resourcefulness among residents.

The project also utilizes innovative techniques such as plastic drainage components to enhance water management, addressing the practical challenges of maintaining infrastructure in a flood-prone area. This focus on sustainability and local materiality distinguishes Awujo-Omi from conventional designs, making it a relevant example of modern urban architecture in an economically diverse context.

Explore the project presentation for further details, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements that illustrate the innovative approach taken in Awujo-Omi. Understanding the architectural ideas behind this project can provide valuable insights into its potential as a model for future developments in similar urban settings.
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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
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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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