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Charred Wooden Shingles and Adaptive Reuse Enhance Urban Living in Intergenerational Housing

Author:
Qiri Cao
Charred Wooden Shingles and Adaptive Reuse Enhance Urban Living in Intergenerational Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and engineered wood, the design creates a sustainable urban habitat that fosters intergenerational interaction through shared communal spaces and diverse living options.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light penetration and views.
04
Integrates indoor gardens to promote well-being and improve air quality.
05
Includes adaptable living units tailored for diverse age groups to foster intergenerational connections.
The Mixed-age Community (MAC) project explores innovative architectural design by reimagining urban living scenarios that facilitate interaction among different age groups. This architecture aims to address contemporary societal needs through spatial organization that encourages communal living while accommodating individual privacy.

The MAC integrates various residential typologies tailored for both elderly and younger populations. It features a distinct combination of communal amenities and private living spaces, emphasizing sustainability and accessibility within the urban context. The design fosters a sense of belonging through carefully curated areas that promote social interaction.

Unique Aspects of Design Approach

The architecture employs a thoughtful arrangement of communal spaces, including shared kitchens, gathering areas, and educational facilities. These spaces are intentionally placed to enable ease of access and promote intergenerational interaction among residents. By creating a mix of unit types—including single-occupant elderly units and family-oriented residences—the project advances a collaborative living paradigm rarely seen in conventional housing developments.

Material selection in the MAC project emphasizes sustainability and visual harmony. Engineered wood and concrete are primary materials, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Large glass windows and façades enhance natural lighting, contributing to energy efficiency while creating a visual connection with the outdoor environment.

Integration of Green Spaces

The inclusion of green spaces is a prominent feature of the MAC, with well-distributed gardens and pathways that enhance the livability of the environment. These outdoor areas serve as a retreat for residents, fostering community engagement through nature. The design emphasizes permeability through spaces that facilitate walkability and active lifestyle choices.

The architectural design not only addresses the physical needs of its inhabitants but also responds to emotional and psychological well-being, aiming to reduce social isolation through its inclusive framework. The project stands as a relevant case study for future urban developments focusing on community integration and sustainable living practices.

Readers interested in further understanding the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of the Mixed-age Community may explore additional resources to gain comprehensive insights into its innovative ideas and execution.
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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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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