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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Authors:
Inhwan Tae, Iris Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Design in a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reclaimed materials, the development integrates biophilic design principles to create a multifunctional urban hub that fosters community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint during construction.
03
Features a central courtyard designed to promote biodiversity and ecological health.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Emphasizes pedestrian pathways to encourage walkability and community interaction.

Located in an urban setting, the design aims to address both functional and aesthetic requirements of the community. The intention is to create a cohesive environment that enhances interaction among users while accommodating various activities. The site’s context informs the design approach, integrating urban fabric and landscape elements.

**Spatial Organization**
The layout features distinct zones that facilitate movement and engagement, with open areas promoting social interaction and private spaces designed for individual contemplation. Circulation pathways are strategically positioned to guide users through the environment, ensuring accessibility and connectivity. The arrangement of volumes highlights the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the structure.

**Material Selection**
The use of durable materials reflects a commitment to longevity and visual harmony within the surrounding environment. A palette of natural finishes, including wood, stone, and metal, provides texture and warmth while addressing the practical needs of maintenance. The design incorporates advanced materials that enhance energy efficiency and contribute to the overall performance of the building.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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