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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facade Integrate Environmental Design in a Community-Centric Museum

Authors:
Chiarini - swiss design center school Claudio, Jennifer Romailler-Berthod, William Kinson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facade Integrate Environmental Design in a Community-Centric Museum

Project in-detail

Elegantly crafted with charred wooden shingles and a robust concrete facade, the museum embodies a connection to its northern landscape while serving as a vibrant hub for cultural exchange and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The museum incorporates a green roof designed to mimic the surrounding topography, enhancing its integration with the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance, showcasing a commitment to durability in design.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are strategically employed to create open, flexible exhibition spaces while ensuring structural integrity.
04
The building features carefully placed light wells that maximize natural illumination throughout the interior, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
05
A bent A-frame design not only contributes to a distinctive silhouette but also allows for effective snow shedding, addressing local climate challenges.
The h.m.n Museum is an architectural project designed with a clear vision of integrating culture and nature in a harmonious manner. Situated in a northern landscape characterized by its unique geographical features, this museum serves both as an exhibition space and a community hub. It is conceptualized not only as a structure for displaying art but also as a facilitator of cultural exchange and interaction.

This project represents a new approach to museum design by placing emphasis on visitor experience and engagement, while respecting the natural environment. The primary function of the h.m.n Museum extends beyond showcasing artifacts; it encompasses spaces for the community, including offices, a cafeteria, and tourist information services. This multifaceted approach reinforces the museum’s role in fostering cultural appreciation, facilitating educational opportunities, and promoting tourism in the area.

The design of the h.m.n Museum consists of distinct volumes that separate various functionalities, making it easier for visitors to navigate the space. The architectural arrangement is meticulously designed to enhance the visitor experience, allowing for clear directional flow between exhibition spaces and communal areas. Each volume is carefully oriented to maximize natural light, with strategically placed openings that allow sunlight to filter through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere within the museum.

One of the notable aspects of this project is the incorporation of bridges within the design. These features serve both an aesthetic and practical purpose, enhancing circulation and connectivity between different parts of the museum. Furthermore, the roof design mimics the natural landscape, featuring vegetation that not only blends the building into its surroundings but also contributes to sustainability efforts. By using a green roof, the museum minimizes its ecological impact while promoting biodiversity.

Materiality plays a significant role in the overall design concept. The selection of concrete and glass highlights a balance between robustness and transparency. Concrete is used for structural elements, providing durability and a sense of permanence, while glass elements create visual connectivity to the stunning views outside, bridging the interior with the external landscape. Additionally, the thoughtful use of wood in interior spaces introduces warmth and a sense of comfort, making the environment feel welcoming to all who enter.

The architectural approach of the h.m.n Museum exemplifies a commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. By placing the visitor experience at the center of the design, the museum emerges as a vital cultural institution that respects and reflects its geographic context. This thoughtful integration of architecture with its surrounding environment not only defines the project but also serves to elevate the experiences of those who engage with it.

For those interested in exploring the intricate details and thoughtful design of the h.m.n Museum, consider reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. Dive deeper into the unique architectural ideas that have shaped this project, as they provide valuable insights into the interplay between culture, nature, and architectural innovation.
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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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