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Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Facades in a Sustainable Urban Living Solution

Author:
Alexis Henry
Charred Wooden Shingles and Angular Facades in a Sustainable Urban Living Solution

Project in-detail

With its angular facades clad in charred wooden shingles and thoughtfully designed modular living pods, this sustainable urban development redefines co-living by balancing community engagement with individual privacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a distinctive texture to the facade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels promote sustainability through efficient construction and reduced carbon footprint.
03
The design features a bent A-frame structure that optimizes natural light and ventilation in communal areas.
04
Modular living pods can be easily reconfigured to accommodate varying resident needs and preferences.
05
Central communal spaces are strategically integrated to encourage interaction and foster a sense of community among residents.
The architectural design project known as "Separation - Co-Living" represents a thoughtful approach to the pressing issue of affordable housing in urban settings, specifically in Berlin, Germany. This project aims to create a modern living space that balances community engagement with individual privacy, addressing the unique demands of contemporary urban life.

At its core, the project reinterprets the concept of co-living, moving beyond traditional apartment structures to propose a system of living pods designed for flexibility and adaptability. Each pod serves as both a private unit and a component of a larger community framework, aimed at fostering social interaction while respecting the personal space of residents. This dual focus is essential in urban environments where the need for affordable, efficient housing often clashes with the desire for community and companionship among residents.

The design incorporates various functional elements that enhance both individual and communal aspects of living. Stacked vertically to optimize land use, the living pods play a significant role in the layout, carefully arranged to allow for natural light and ventilation. The use of angled facades enhances the visual appeal of the building while also maximizing the exposure of interior spaces to sunlight. This thoughtful arrangement not only ensures that living areas are well-lit but also contributes to the overall aesthetic of the structure, creating a harmonious integration with the urban landscape.

Materiality is a crucial aspect of the architectural design. The project features a combination of concrete, glass, steel, and wood—each chosen for its functional properties and ability to contribute to the overall visual narrative of the structure. Concrete forms the backbone of the building, providing stability and durability, while glass elements create a connection between the inside and outside, allowing residents to engage with their surroundings. Steel is strategically used in structural components, enabling a lightweight construction method that does not compromise strength. Wood adds warmth to shared spaces, encouraging social interaction and a sense of belonging among residents.

Unique to this project is its emphasis on adaptable living solutions. The architectural design promotes an environment where spaces can easily be reconfigured to meet varying needs. This flexibility caters to a diverse range of inhabitants, from young professionals to families, allowing the spaces to evolve over time. The central communal areas become hubs of activity, where residents can gather for dining, recreation, or work, reinforcing the importance of social connectivity in an urban setting.

Sustainability is also a key consideration in this architectural approach. Features such as green roofs and integrated landscaping not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the building but also contribute to the ecological footprint reduction of the urban environment. Sustainable design choices reflect a growing recognition of the role architecture plays in addressing environmental concerns, particularly in densely populated cities like Berlin.

Overall, "Separation - Co-Living" represents a modern response to urban housing challenges, emphasizing a harmonious balance between individuality and community living. The design highlights how contemporary architecture can adapt to social needs while maintaining a focus on functionality and sustainability. By exploring this innovative project further, readers can gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin its vision for the future of urban living. It encourages an exploration of how thoughtful architecture can contribute meaningfully to the fabric of our cities.
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MICROHOME
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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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