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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Blocks Create Co-Housing Solutions in Vibrant Urban Landscape

Authors:
Cindy Cao, Diana Si
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Blocks Create Co-Housing Solutions in Vibrant Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and concrete blocks, the design intertwines community living with entrepreneurial spaces, fostering interaction and cultural integration in a vibrant urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Features flexible communal spaces that adapt to various community activities.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for energy efficiency and structural integrity.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame silhouette to optimize natural light distribution.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainable water usage.
This architectural project represents a significant initiative in creating urban spaces that prioritize community interaction and cultural integration. The design aims to serve not only as living quarters but also as a multifunctional hub where diverse populations can engage, collaborate, and grow together. By responding to the complexities of urban living, this project illustrates a commitment to fostering social connections while addressing the needs of both long-term residents and newcomers.

At its core, the project revolves around creating a vibrant community framework that accommodates various user demographics. The design emphasizes a harmonious blend of residential and commercial spaces, effectively supporting both living and entrepreneurial activities. This combination encourages interactions among residents, which can deepen emotional connections and establish a richer community life. The layout of the project is thoughtfully organized into distinct zones that facilitate different functions, including designated areas for housing, shared communal spaces, and flexible commercial fronts.

Architectural elements are carefully considered to support the intended purposes of the project. For instance, the use of concrete blocks ensures structural stability, providing a modern, minimalistic exterior that maintains energy efficiency and thermal insulation. Large glass facades enhance the sense of openness within the environment, allowing natural light to flood into the interiors, creating a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Additionally, wood accents in communal areas offer a warm and inviting atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the sleekness of concrete and glass.

The landscaping integrates traditional Chinese elements, which not only honors the local culture but also enriches the living experience by incorporating greenery and natural textures. The project adopts a ‘contained landscape’ approach that invites residents to engage with nature, promoting both relaxation and community interaction. The inclusion of outdoor gathering spaces encourages informal meetings and socialization, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

A unique aspect of this design is its commitment to fostering intergenerational living. By creating spaces that cater to families, individuals, and the elderly, the project acknowledges the diverse needs of its community. This intermixing of different age groups is essential in building a supportive environment, where experiences and knowledge can be shared across generations.

The entrepreneurial focus within the project is noteworthy, as it provides dedicated spaces for local businesses to flourish, reflecting an understanding of the dynamic socioeconomic landscape. With areas designed for culinary ventures and small enterprises, the project acts as an incubator for economic opportunities that can uplift local residents’ livelihoods.

Furthermore, innovative circulation paths enhance connectivity throughout the complex. These pathways are designed not just to facilitate movement but also to encourage encounters among users. Well-positioned public spaces strategically invite residents to pause, meet, and interact, creating a network of relationships that strengthen community bonds.

Sustainability is also a key consideration within the project. The design incorporates eco-friendly systems such as rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient features, demonstrating a commitment to minimizing environmental impact. This responsiveness to sustainable practices aligns with contemporary architectural goals and showcases a forward-thinking approach.

In summary, this architectural project signifies a thoughtful integration of community needs, cultural nuances, and sustainable practices. Its design facilitates not only shelter but also a vibrant social fabric, allowing residents to engage, grow, and thrive together. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the complete project presentation can provide comprehensive insights into the underlying philosophies shaping this innovative endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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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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