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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Terraces in Flexible Urban Housing

Authors:
Carlota De haan, Amanda Lagerkvist, Johanna Schweitz fåhraeus, Amir Ebrahimian
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biophilic Terraces in Flexible Urban Housing

Project in-detail

With a façade of charred wooden shingles and integrated biophilic terraces, the design creates a sustainable urban housing solution that fosters community and flexibility in a rapidly evolving Berlin landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while adding texture and depth to the façade.
02
Integrated biophilic terraces promote biodiversity and provide residents with natural green spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and carbon sequestration, aligning with sustainability goals.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while allowing for efficient water drainage and structural integrity.
05
Flexible living units can adapt to various family sizes and lifestyles, fostering a sense of community.
The project presented is a thoughtful exploration of affordable housing architecture, designed to address the pressing need for inclusive living spaces in urban areas, particularly in Berlin. This initiative represents a calculated response to the current housing crisis, where a stark disparity exists between housing demand and supply. It serves not only as a residential solution but also as a community-oriented framework that emphasizes sustainable practices and social cohesion.

At its core, this project functions as a multi-dimensional housing solution. It prioritizes flexibility and adaptability in its design principles, allowing residents from diverse backgrounds to find a comfortable living space that is both functional and engaging. The architectural approach integrates various dwelling types within a unified structure, promoting interaction among residents and fostering a sense of community. This consideration of social dynamics within the design acknowledges the importance of connections among individuals living in closer quarters.

Key components of the project include thoughtfully designed living units that range in size and layout to accommodate different family structures and lifestyles. Communal areas are strategically placed to encourage social interactions, featuring spaces that facilitate gatherings, recreation, and relaxation. These common areas are essential in reinforcing community ties and creating an inviting atmosphere. The careful arrangement of these spaces demonstrates an awareness of human behaviors and the need for social interactions within densely populated neighborhoods.

In terms of architectural details, the project favors a combination of robust materials that are suitable for long-term urban living. Reinforced concrete is likely a primary element, providing structural reliability in an urban context. In addition, the use of wood for interior finishes not only contributes to a warm aesthetic but also highlights sustainability, which is central to the project’s ethos. The incorporation of glass in architectural elements improves natural light flow, creating an inviting ambiance in both private units and community spaces.

A distinctive feature of this design is its integration with the surrounding environment. By including green terraces and communal gardens, the project emphasizes a profound connection between residents and nature. These green spaces are vital for promoting well-being and biodiversity in urban settings, where such elements are often scarce. The architectural vision reflects an understanding of the therapeutic benefits of greenery within residential environments, aligning with contemporary principles of wellness in architecture.

Moreover, the project adopts a phased implementation approach that allows for ongoing evaluation and refinement. This forward-thinking strategy ensures that the housing solutions can adapt to evolving community needs and urban conditions. It involves collaboration with local government and stakeholders, facilitating a model for collective action in tackling housing challenges. This kind of partnership is crucial in effectively addressing the multifaceted issues surrounding urban housing.

Architecturally, this project stands out for its commitment to integrating affordability with quality design. The inclusivity concept is foundational, with a design that promotes various socio-economic demographics cohabiting harmoniously. It not only responds to the immediate needs of housing but envisions a communal future where residents actively participate in shaping their living environment.

As you explore the full presentation of this project, you will uncover detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that enrich the understanding of its innovative approach to housing. Engaging with these elements will provide you with deeper insights into how this architectural design is redefining notions of affordable living in contemporary urban contexts.
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Enter an open architecture
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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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