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Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades in Community-Centric Urban Housing

Author:
Dovile Ciapaite
Charred Wooden Shingles and Brick Facades in Community-Centric Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and durable brick façades, the housing development promotes community engagement while addressing urban living needs through adaptable and sustainable design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve insulation and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features adaptable living spaces to accommodate varying family sizes and needs.
04
Designed with community engagement platforms to encourage resident participation.
05
Integrates extensive green spaces to promote outdoor activities and social interaction.
The Hallfield Estate architectural project presents a comprehensive approach to residential design within the context of urban housing challenges in Paddington, London. Initially completed in two phases in the mid-20th century, the estate has undergone significant adaptive changes to address the evolving needs of its residents. This project signifies a commitment to community engagement and sustainable urban development, positioning itself as a model for contemporary housing solutions.

Design Function and Community Engagement

The primary function of the Hallfield Estate is to provide high-density residential units while fostering a strong sense of community among residents. The architectural design employs the principles of Corbusian architecture to create open spaces that encourage social interaction. The layout integrates communal gardens and gathering areas, although historical underutilization suggests the need for design modifications that better meet residents' requirements.

Unique Features and Design Approaches

A defining characteristic of this project is its focus on community-centric strategies. Greater emphasis is placed on engaging residents in the design process, allowing for input that informs architectural decisions. This participatory approach not only enhances the original design intent but also cultivates ownership of the living environment among residents.

Key elements include:

1. **Mixed-Use Involvement**: The development incorporates residential, commercial, and communal spaces, facilitating diverse social interactions and accessibility. This blend aims to reduce isolation and encourage a symbiotic relationship between work and home life.

2. **Contextual Materiality**: A selection of materials such as brick, concrete, wood, and glass has been deliberately chosen for their harmony with the surrounding architecture and their durability. Their application enhances both aesthetic and functional qualities, contributing to sustainable practices.

3. **Adaptability**: The design promotes flexibility in housing configurations to accommodate varied family sizes and economic conditions. This adaptability is essential for addressing the diverse demographics within the estate, tailoring living spaces to specific needs.

4. **Community Platforms**: Introducing platforms for resident-led initiatives emphasizes empowerment and self-governance. Such features inspire creative engagement and enable residents to partake actively in the evolution of their community.

Architectural Innovations and Future Directions

The adaptive reuse of existing structures alongside new builds outlines a progressive approach to urban housing development. By integrating self-build options and promoting rights for property transfer, the project addresses wider social issues while honoring historical context. This commitment to tradition, alongside innovative design thinking, presents a comprehensive vision for future residential developments.

For more in-depth insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas inherent in the Hallfield Estate project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a richer understanding of the design’s intent and the strategic responses it offers to contemporary urban challenges.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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