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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Elements Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Roua Khaled, Idriss Nicolas Attia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Elements Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with biophilic design elements, the development redefines urban living through sustainable practices while fostering a vibrant community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to improve construction efficiency and sustainability.
03
Integrates extensive green walls that support local biodiversity and air quality.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and energy efficiency.
05
Includes communal spaces designed specifically to encourage social interaction among residents.
The architectural project in focus embodies a thoughtful integration of modern design principles with a strong sense of place. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this project serves multiple functions, primarily catering to residential needs while also accommodating communal spaces that foster interaction and connectivity among its users. The design represents a commitment to sustainable living, as it incorporates environmentally responsible practices and materials throughout its conception.

At its core, the architecture emphasizes open spaces and natural light, which are essential elements that enhance the quality of life for residents. The layout is methodically organized, allowing seamless movement and accessibility while encouraging social engagement. Major components include flexible living spaces that adapt to the needs of residents, shared gardens that promote community involvement, and wellness amenities that contribute to a holistic lifestyle. The building’s footprint is designed considering the site's orientation, maximizing solar gain and minimizing energy consumption, which reflects a profound understanding of environmental dynamics.

The material palette chosen for the project is particularly noteworthy, incorporating locally sourced materials that harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The use of sustainable concrete, reclaimed wood, and energy-efficient glazing not only enhances the building's aesthetic appeal but also underlines the commitment to ecological responsibility. These materials are skillfully employed to create textures and depths that add visual interest without overwhelming the senses. The façade, characterized by its clean lines and varied surface treatments, conveys a contemporary yet contextual identity, reinforcing the project’s alignment with its geographic location.

Unique design approaches are evident in the incorporation of biophilic elements, which aim to foster a deeper connection between residents and nature. This is exemplified by the integration of green walls, rooftop gardens, and landscaped balconies that invite plants into the built environment. By prioritizing such elements, the architecture achieves a dual purpose; it not only enhances the aesthetic dimension but also promotes occupant wellbeing and biodiversity.

Attention to detail is evident in the spatial organization, which balances private and shared spaces effectively. The communal areas are strategically placed to encourage interaction among residents, featuring comfortable seating, communal kitchens, and recreational areas that collectively cultivate a sense of community spirit. Each residential unit, while private, is designed with large windows and balconies that extend the living space outdoors and offer residents opportunities to engage with their surrounding environment.

This architectural project also embraces innovative technology, incorporating smart home systems that allow residents to manage energy use and enhance their living experience. The integration of these systems demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to modern living, aligning the project with contemporary demands for convenience, efficiency, and sustainability.

Overall, this architectural endeavor stands as a refined example of how thoughtful design can lead to sustainable, community-focused living environments. Its commitment to sustainable practices, innovative use of materials, and dedication to enhancing communal experiences collectively shape a project that is both relevant and instructive in today’s architectural discourse. For those interested in exploring the full scope of this project, including architectural plans and sections that reveal its intricacies, there is much to discover in its presentation. Engaging with the detailed design ideas allows a deeper understanding of how this project successfully melds various aspects of architecture to create meaningful spaces for its occupants.
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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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