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Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facade Define Community-Centric Vertical Living Solution

Authors:
Yutong Jin, Yupeng Gao, Mathew tou u Tong
Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facade Define Community-Centric Vertical Living Solution

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles with a brick facade, this vertical community hub offers customizable living units and shared green spaces, addressing urban housing needs in a sustainable manner.
5 key facts about this project
01
Customizable unit layouts accommodate diverse family structures and cultural backgrounds.
02
Integration of communal gardens fosters community interaction and sustainability.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability and fire resistance.
04
Bent A-frame design facilitates efficient natural ventilation throughout the structure.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction time and improve energy efficiency.
The "Melbourne Rejuvenation" project is an architectural design initiative focused on creating a vertical community in Melbourne, Australia. Designed to address urban housing needs, the project integrates residential, communal, and recreational spaces within a high-rise structure. With a focus on affordability, sustainability, and community engagement, the design seeks to redefine urban living by promoting social interaction and a sense of belonging among residents.

Community-Centric Design Approach

A primary distinguishing feature of this project is its emphasis on community-centric living. The design incorporates shared spaces such as markets, gardens, and recreational areas that encourage social interaction among residents. Unlike traditional residential developments, which often prioritize individual units, this project focuses on creating an environment that fosters community relationships and enhances quality of life. The layout is organized to facilitate easy movement between private and communal spaces, integrating social connectivity within the architectural framework.

Additionally, the architectural approach includes customizable living units that respond to diverse family structures and cultural backgrounds. By providing multiple layout options, the design accommodates the needs of varying demographics, allowing for personalization while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. This flexibility is a key component in addressing the challenges of urbanization and demographic diversity in the area.

Sustainable Materiality and Construction Techniques

Materiality plays a significant role in the project’s success. The design utilizes a combination of brick, glass, steel, and wood to create a balanced and sustainable structure. Brick offers durability and a connection to Melbourne’s architectural heritage, while glass facades enhance transparency and light, promoting a sense of openness. Steel is strategically used for structural support, enabling the high-rise configuration, while wood is incorporated in interior spaces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The project also emphasizes sustainability in construction techniques, aiming for energy-efficient systems and reduced environmental impact. By integrating green building practices, the design not only addresses the housing shortage but also contributes positively to the urban landscape.

Innovative Urban Integration

The vertical design approach not only maximizes land use but also integrates seamlessly with Melbourne’s existing urban fabric. The architectural design is mindful of its context, enhancing the surrounding environment rather than imposing on it. The relationship between the building and its neighborhood is considered through landscaping and the arrangement of public spaces, which are designed to foster interactions with the urban ecosystem.

As a result, the "Melbourne Rejuvenation" project stands out among conventional developments by prioritizing community connectivity, sustainability, and adaptability within a high-density urban setting. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approaches and architectural ideas.
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MICROHOME
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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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