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Charred Wooden Shingles and Adaptive Layouts in Sustainable Urban Housing

Author:
Cassandre Epinat
Charred Wooden Shingles and Adaptive Layouts in Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles for exterior cladding and a grid-based layout for community engagement, the design integrates sustainable living with flexible residential units in Berlin's historic urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a grid-based planning system to promote resident involvement in the design process.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and sustainability.
04
Includes adaptable living spaces that cater to a diverse range of household sizes.
05
Designed to blend seamlessly with the historic context of Berlin's Hansaviertel district.
The architectural design project titled "Everyone’s Contribution" focuses on social housing within the Hansaviertel district of Berlin. The initiative seeks to address pressing housing shortages through a community-centric approach that emphasizes participatory planning and integration with existing urban contexts. The design strategy employs a grid system that serves as a framework for future housing developments, fostering a sense of community ownership among residents.

A key feature of the project is its commitment to inclusivity. The design promotes flexible living spaces that accommodate a range of household sizes and compositions. This adaptability is essential in catering to Berlin’s diverse demographics, allowing residents to personalize their living environments while maintaining communal areas for interaction. The layout facilitates social connectivity while respecting individual privacy, creating an appropriate balance within the architectural framework.

Innovative Approach to Community Engagement

A distinctive aspect of "Everyone's Contribution" is its emphasis on active resident participation in the design and development process. By utilizing a grid-based model, the project offers a structured yet adaptable guideline for community members to engage in shaping their living spaces. This approach not only empowers residents but also builds relationships among them, reinforcing a sense of belonging and responsibility within the community.

This participatory method contrasts sharply with traditional housing projects where decisions are typically made by developers or government entities without direct input from future occupants. The project’s model fosters a collaborative atmosphere, enabling the construction of unique housing typologies that reflect the community's varied needs and preferences.

Sustainable Materiality and Architectural Integration

The material selection for the project is carefully curated to promote sustainability while ensuring compatibility with the historic fabric of Hansaviertel. Materials such as brick, concrete, wood, and glass comprise an environmentally responsible palette that is both functional and aesthetically harmonious.

The use of brick nods to the architectural heritage of the district, providing durability while allowing the new structures to blend into the historic context. Concrete serves structural purposes, creating a versatile framework for adaptability, while wood enhances communal spaces with warmth and texture. Large glass elements are strategically placed to maximize natural light, fostering a connection between interior and exterior environments.

The architectural details reflect a commitment to sustainability and long-term resilience. Features like green roofs and communal garden spaces not only enhance ecological performance but also promote social interaction among residents.

In summary, "Everyone’s Contribution" presents a model for urban housing that prioritizes community involvement, adaptability, and sustainability. This project stands apart from standard housing initiatives by fostering a collaborative environment where residents influence the architectural outcome. Readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional insights, including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that further illustrate the innovative aspects of this approach to social housing in Berlin.
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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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