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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Facades Create a Unique Community Hub Using Cross-Laminated Timber

Author:
Atif Jamal Hilal Al Barwani
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Facades Create a Unique Community Hub Using Cross-Laminated Timber

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a community hub that seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber and biophilic design, creating inviting spaces for social interaction and reflection within an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance while contributing to the aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to create a lightweight structure with excellent thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates innovative spatial configurations, maximizing usable area within the building.
04
Green roofs and vertical gardens are integrated into the architecture, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality.
05
Purposefully designed social spaces encourage community engagement and interaction among users.
The architectural project in question represents a thoughtfully conceived design that integrates functionality with an aesthetic sensibility. Located in an urban context, the design reflects the cultural and environmental nuances of its surroundings while serving as a versatile space for communal engagement and individual reflection. The overall vision of the project is to create a harmonious relationship between built and natural environments, fostering a sense of well-being among users.

The architecture of this project is characterized by a careful selection of materials and forms that resonate with the beginning of the 21st century's design thinking. Natural wood, steel, glass, and concrete are among the primary materials employed, each chosen not only for their structural properties but also for their ability to evoke a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interplay of these materials creates a dynamic facade that evolves throughout the day, with light and shadow playing crucial roles in shaping the user experience.

The project's layout is driven by functional considerations, allowing for both private and communal spaces to coexist seamlessly. Open floor plans enable fluid movement throughout the structure, while designated areas encourage social interaction and collective activities. Thoughtfully placed windows and skylights further enhance connectivity to the outdoors, ensuring that each space is suffused with natural light. This design strategy emphasizes the importance of environmental sustainability and user comfort, instilling a sense of awareness about nature within the urban fabric.

One of the standout features of this architectural endeavor is its innovative approach to landscape integration. The project incorporates green roofs and vertical gardens alongside outdoor terraces that offer respite from the urban hustle. This focus on biophilic design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to ecological balance by promoting biodiversity and improving air quality. The exterior landscaping is thoughtfully planned, inviting community members to engage with the environment and fostering a sense of ownership and belonging.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the effective use of spatial transitions within the design. The flow from indoor to outdoor spaces is marked by a deliberate sequence of thresholds that guide visitors through a variety of experiences. This approach emphasizes the relationship between different areas of the project, enhancing the overall functionality while also allowing for unexpected moments of discovery. Each transition serves to invite exploration, making the space not just a structure but an evolving experience.

The architectural ideas reflected in the project are underscored by a commitment to sustainability and community-oriented design. The building incorporates renewable energy sources, optimizes energy consumption through passive design strategies, and emphasizes the importance of building materials that align with eco-friendly principles. This holistic approach not only addresses current environmental challenges but also establishes a model for future architectural practices.

Overall, the project exemplifies a contemporary architectural language that prioritizes human experience while respecting the environment. Through rigorous attention to detail, a thoughtful selection of materials, and a deep understanding of the surrounding context, this design emerges as a vital part of its community. The unique features and innovative approaches integrated into the project invite ongoing engagement and exploration, encouraging further investigation into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that shape its identity. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the project, I encourage you to explore the detailed presentation available, which elucidates the various architectural ideas that underpin this inspiring endeavor.
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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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