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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Facility

Author:
Mak PaveliĆ
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Facility

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and biophilic design elements that seamlessly merge with the urban landscape, the mixed-use facility offers accessible living and community spaces that foster connection and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a biophilic design strategy that integrates indoor gardens, enhancing occupant well-being.
02
Uses locally sourced charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a unique aesthetic.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Includes flexible spaces designed to adapt for various community functions over time.
05
Integrates smart building technology to optimize energy use and user comfort.
The architectural design project in consideration presents a thoughtful integration of modern aesthetics and functional utility, demonstrating a commitment to innovative design principles. This project embodies a harmonious blend of form and function, aimed at addressing the contemporary demands of urban living while respecting its contextual environment.

At its core, the project functions as a multi-use facility, accommodating both residential and commercial spaces. This dual-purpose approach enhances the livability of the surrounding area, offering residents convenient access to essential services and creating a vibrant community atmosphere. The project successfully fulfills its role by prioritizing accessibility, sustainability, and user experience, ensuring that it meets the needs of diverse demographics.

The design showcases a careful selection of materials that contribute to its overall character. The use of locally sourced brick is significant, providing not only an aesthetically pleasing façade but also enhancing the building’s thermal performance and durability. Large expanses of glass are incorporated to facilitate natural light, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors. The thoughtful integration of green spaces—both on the rooftops and along the pedestrian pathways—highlights the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal.

One of the unique aspects of this architectural design is its focus on biophilic principles, creating a space that promotes a strong connection between inhabitants and nature. Indoor gardens and strategically placed flora not only improve air quality but also contribute to the well-being of the occupants. This emphasis on the relationship between architecture and nature is increasingly relevant in today’s urban contexts, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The architectural layout is equally compelling. Open floor plans facilitate flexibility, allowing spaces to adapt to various usages over time. In addition, the vertical circulation is carefully arranged to optimize flow and accessibility, catering to pedestrian traffic while ensuring an efficient navigation of the building's different levels. Architectural sections reveal a commitment to inclusivity, with design elements that comply with accessibility standards to ensure that the facility is usable for everyone.

Significant attention has been paid to the integration of technology within the architectural framework. Smart building systems are employed to enhance energy efficiency and user comfort, reflecting ongoing trends in contemporary design. These systems enable occupants to manage lighting, climate control, and security measures seamlessly, embodying a forward-thinking approach that is vital in modern architectural design.

The project's contextual response is another noteworthy feature. Situated within an urban setting, the design takes cues from the surrounding architectural language while establishing its unique identity. This silos the project from mere replication of adjacent buildings, instead embracing its distinctiveness. The integration of local cultural elements into the design narrative further elevates the project, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among the community.

Through a systematic analysis of the architectural plans and sections, one can observe the meticulous attention to detail that informs this design. Each element has been purposefully chosen and arranged to create a cohesive whole, providing insights into the project’s broader conceptual framework. It is evident that the architects have considered not only the immediate functionality of spaces but also the long-term impact on the urban landscape.

As the exploration of this architectural design project reveals, there are numerous layers of thought behind its creation. Engaging with the comprehensive project presentation can further elucidate the intricacies of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that shape this vibrant and significant addition to the city. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into these elements to fully appreciate the sophistication and practical implications woven into the fabric of this project.
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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
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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