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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Create Dynamic Community Living Spaces

Authors:
Yichen Zhai, Daniel Wen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Create Dynamic Community Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements that invite natural light, the design crafts a seamless integration of community gardens and multifunctional spaces, fostering vibrant communal living in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and structural stability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing space and providing natural light throughout.
04
Offers multifunctional communal areas designed to adapt based on resident needs.
05
Integrates resident-maintained gardens to foster community involvement and ecological awareness.
The architectural design project known as "The Living Street" embodies a thoughtful integration of urban living, sustainability, and community engagement. Situated within the diverse contexts of China, this project is a response to modern societal needs, focusing on the interplay between built environments and the natural world. By encouraging interaction among residents and fostering a sense of belonging, "The Living Street" serves as an innovative model for future urban development.

At the heart of this project is the concept of adaptability, drawing inspiration from Bruce Lee's philosophy that emphasizes fluidity and responsiveness. The architecture reflects this ethos by creating spaces that can evolve in response to the changing needs of the community. The layout features a well-organized grid of residential blocks, intertwined with communal areas designed for social interaction. These spaces promote a vibrant lifestyle while catering to the varying demands of urban and suburban living.

The primary function of "The Living Street" revolves around providing diverse living solutions that integrate seamlessly with the urban fabric. It fosters community engagement through dedicated green spaces, workshops, and shared gardens. The design deliberately encourages residents to maintain these gardens, promoting ecological sustainability and reinforcing a sense of stewardship over the environment. The inclusion of multipurpose pavilions supports cultural activities, allowing for community gatherings and events that reflect the local heritage and traditions.

Distinct components of the project highlight its unique design approach. The residential units are thoughtfully arranged to maximize views and natural light while offering access to outdoor spaces. For instance, Unit A incorporates private vegetable gardens and workshop spaces, facilitating a hands-on lifestyle. Unit B features recreational areas specifically designed to cultivate social interactions, while Unit C ensures that all living spaces are connected to communal amenities. This balance between private and shared environments is crucial to nurturing a cohesive community spirit.

The choice of materials in the construction of "The Living Street" further underscores its commitment to sustainability and contemporary design. Concrete provides structural integrity, while glass elements enhance transparency and connectivity with the surroundings. The integration of timber offers warmth and an organic texture, creating an inviting atmosphere within residential units. Vegetative components contribute to ecological resilience, supporting local biodiversity and creating a harmonious relationship between the architecture and nature.

One standout feature of "The Living Street" is its focus on flexibility and multifunctionality. The streets are designed to be porous, allowing for a natural flow of movement among pedestrians and cyclists, thus promoting a healthier lifestyle. This open design encourages spontaneous interactions among residents, strengthening the social fabric of the community. The versatility of spaces, such as rotating food stalls and workshop locations, ensures that the project can evolve and adapt as community needs change over time.

The overall design of "The Living Street" reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in urban settings. By prioritizing community interaction, ecological sustainability, and adaptability, this project serves as a notable example of modern architecture responding to contemporary challenges. It emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments that foster connections, not just among individuals but also between people and their surroundings.

To gain further insight into the depth of "The Living Street," readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with the project. An examination of these elements will provide a more profound understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this thoughtful and innovative design.
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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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