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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Elements Elevate Urban Community Space

Author:
Annette Choy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Elements Elevate Urban Community Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a biophilic design approach, the community space fosters connectivity and sustainability in a vibrant urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
Utilizes a unique bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces.
04
Integrates vertical gardens that provide natural insulation and improve air quality.
05
Includes modular sections that allow for flexible use and future expansion.

The project encompasses a contemporary architectural design that integrates functionality with aesthetic appeal. Located in a vibrant urban setting, it serves as a multi-purpose facility catering to community needs. The architecture emphasizes a commitment to sustainable practices, utilizing materials and techniques that minimize environmental impact while enhancing user experience.

The overall design reflects an openness and connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering interaction among users. It prioritizes natural light through large windows and open layouts, while the strategic placement of communal areas encourages social engagement. The building's massing responds to its surroundings, effectively transitioning between different scales and contexts.

Unique Design Values This project distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to material selection and sustainability. By integrating recycled materials into its construction, the design promotes environmental stewardship. The facade employs a combination of textures and colors that respond to the local climate, while shading devices reduce solar heat gain and enhance energy efficiency. Moreover, the concept of biophilic design is evident, with green roofs and vertical gardens that connect occupants to nature, further enhancing the building's ecological footprint.

Architectural Layout and Functional Spaces Internally, the layout is organized to maximize utility while enhancing circulation. Various zones are designated for different activities, including collaborative workspaces, leisure areas, and conference rooms. These spaces are interspersed with breakout zones that encourage informal gatherings. The use of acoustic panels ensures sound privacy without compromising the openness of the design. The integration of technology throughout facilitates seamless connectivity, aligning with modern user expectations.

For further insights into architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the project to appreciate its innovative details and architectural ideas.

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

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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

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