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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Create Flexible Communal Living Spaces in Urban Development

Authors:
Danqing Huang, Shu Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Create Flexible Communal Living Spaces in Urban Development

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and durable concrete, this design fosters flexible communal living spaces that prioritize both individuality and community interaction in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal while resisting environmental wear.
02
Flexible interior layouts allow residents to customize their spaces based on personal needs and communal activities.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural strength and to promote sustainable building practices.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in shared areas.
05
The multi-level design encourages vertical interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community within a compact footprint.
The architectural design project known as the "Shared Snail House" presents an innovative approach to communal living, specifically catering to the challenges and dynamics of modern urban life in China. This project seeks to redefine how individuals and families interact within their living environments, promoting a sense of community while also providing the necessary privacy that modern inhabitants require.

At its core, the "Shared Snail House" represents a synthesis of traditional collective living concepts fused with contemporary architectural practice. The design emphasizes functional space utilization, ensuring that each residential unit maintains its character while remaining part of a broader community framework. The layout encourages social interaction and community bonding, essential in today's fast-paced urban settings.

The project features a carefully considered arrangement of residential units and shared spaces. Each unit is designed to optimize available space, reflecting a deep understanding of the needs of small families or individuals. The interiors are characterized by their efficient use of space, providing all necessary amenities without compromising comfort or functionality. Larger communal areas, such as lounges, kitchens, and recreational spaces, serve as vital hubs where residents can gather, collaborate, and engage with each other.

One of the distinctive aspects of this design is its emphasis on flexibility. Spaces are designed not just for immediate purposes but with adaptability in mind, allowing residents to reconfigure areas as their needs evolve over time. For instance, shared rooms can transition from study areas during the day to social spaces in the evening, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to multifunctionality that enhances the living experience.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design. The use of concrete forms the backbone of the structural framework, providing durability and resilience. Interior finishes employ warm wood elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that contrasts with the harsher exterior materials. Windows and glass partitions are utilized extensively to foster a sense of openness, allowing natural light to flow into both private and communal spaces. This careful selection of materials not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes a connection with the surrounding environment, engaging residents with the outdoors.

The architectural language of the "Shared Snail House" reflects a modernist sensibility, with clean lines and minimalist forms that allow the functionality of the design to take center stage. Incorporating vertical elements into the structure maximizes space efficiency and encourages exploration within the building, fostering a sense of discovery as residents navigate through various levels.

Unique design approaches are evident in how the project addresses communal living. This design recognizes the importance of interactive spaces for children and teenagers, providing them with areas that allow for both individual pursuits and social engagement. By creating environments that consider all age groups, the "Shared Snail House" effectively nurtures a micro-community where interactions can flourish organically.

The project is set against a backdrop of rapid urbanization, reflecting sensitivity to the socio-cultural dynamics present in modern Chinese society. It acknowledges the need for housing solutions that not only address physical needs but also enhance quality of life through community-oriented designs. In this regard, the "Shared Snail House" serves as a model for how architecture can respond to contemporary societal issues, positioning itself as an efficient and thoughtful solution to urban living challenges.

Readers interested in exploring the comprehensive details of the "Shared Snail House" are encouraged to delve deeper into the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that articulate its vision. This project exemplifies a thoughtful exploration of communal living that resonates with the values and necessities of urban populations today. Engaging with this project will provide further insights into its intricate design and strategic approach to modern living.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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