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Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades in a Cohesive Community Space

Author:
Alessandro Vaghi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades in a Cohesive Community Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and an engaging brick facade, the design creates a vibrant community hub that fosters connection while prioritizing environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces and optimize natural light.
04
Integrates native landscaping to promote biodiversity and ecological harmony.
05
Includes flexible communal areas designed for diverse community interactions and events.
The project under analysis represents a thoughtful approach to modern architecture, emphasizing functionality, aesthetics, and environmental consciousness. Situated in a vibrant urban context, this architectural design embraces its surroundings while creating a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature. It embodies the evolving dialogue between form and function, reflecting contemporary lifestyle needs while maintaining respect for the historical significance of the area.

From the outset, the design prioritizes functionality, serving both as a residential space and a communal hub. The building's layout is meticulously organized, with distinct areas designated for living, working, and social interaction. This thoughtful partitioning caters to the diverse needs of its occupants, ensuring that each space is utilized effectively. The integration of flexible spaces within the floor plan allows for adaptability, accommodating both intimate gatherings and larger community events.

Architecturally, the project features a mix of modern and traditional elements, deftly weaving cultural narratives into its design. This fusion is evident in the choice of materials and finishes, which include locally sourced brick, timber, and glass. The brick cladding pays homage to the historical context of the region, while expansive glass windows invite abundant natural light and connect the interior spaces with the exterior landscape. Timber elements are thoughtfully incorporated to add warmth and texture, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the architecture.

In addition to aesthetics, the design emphasizes sustainability. Energy-efficient systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, have been integrated seamlessly into the architectural framework. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond the individual building, as the project aims to contribute to a larger community initiative focused on reducing the carbon footprint. The landscaping incorporates native plants, designed to thrive in the local climate, further bolstering the project's ecological integrity.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design, with particular focus on the user experience. The circulation paths are thoughtfully laid out, guided by natural light and visual cues that enhance wayfinding. Common areas, such as the lobby and shared terraces, have been designed as inviting spaces, encouraging social interaction among occupants. The use of color and texture plays a crucial role in creating a welcoming ambiance, allowing occupants to feel connected to their environment.

Unique design approaches emerge in the architectural elements, such as the incorporation of vertical gardens and green roofs that not only provide aesthetic appeal but also promote biodiversity. These features offer insulation, reducing energy consumption while contributing to air quality improvement. Furthermore, the design considers the balance between privacy and openness, ensuring that residents can enjoy both secluded moments and communal engagement.

The project also emphasizes a strong connection to its geographical context, leveraging the site's topography and climate. The orientation of the building has been strategically planned to maximize natural light and minimize energy use, while large overhangs protect interior spaces from excessive heat during the summer. This responsive design approach reflects a deep understanding of the local environment and climate conditions, creating a structure that adapts over time.

Overall, this architectural design is a notable example of contemporary practice, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the interplay between environment, community, and aesthetic form. Its careful attention to materiality, sustainable practices, and user experience underscores a commitment to creating spaces that are not only functional but also promote well-being among their occupants. Readers interested in exploring deeper insights into this architectural project are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas to appreciate the full scope of this compelling undertaking.
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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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