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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Development

Author:
Diego Alonso Castro Estrada
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the development integrates sustainable materials with flexible residential and communal spaces to foster a vibrant urban community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic depth.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for efficient load-bearing and sustainable construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates vertical gardens into the facade to promote environmental sustainability.
05
Includes flexible communal areas designed for diverse community activities and interactions.

### Overview

Located in the historic center of a city renowned for its cultural heritage, the Novus Lima project aims to address urban revitalization and community needs. This area, rich in historical significance, serves both as a challenge for modern development and as an opportunity to integrate contemporary architectural solutions that resonate with its past. The design strives to create a cohesive environment that caters to housing demands and communal interactions, reflecting the intricacies of the urban fabric.

### Design Framework

The architectural approach is grounded in the principles of integration and sustainability. Mixed-use spaces are central to the design, combining residential units with communal areas that promote social interaction among residents. Pathways and public spaces are strategically planned to enhance accessibility and connectivity, encouraging pedestrian and cyclist movements while minimizing reliance on automobiles. The incorporation of vertical gardens and terraces not only adds aesthetic value but also aligns with ecological and recreational goals, contributing to improved air quality and providing green respite in the urban landscape.

### Materiality and User Experience

A discerning selection of materials has been made to foster harmony with the surrounding environment. Concrete serves as the primary structural material for its durability, while expansive glass facades enhance natural light and blur the lines between interior and exterior spaces. Steel elements introduce a modern aesthetic, complementing innovative designs, while the use of wood in interiors creates a warm, tactile atmosphere conducive to community engagement. The project’s commitment to a variety of housing typologies effectively supports diverse demographics, reinforcing social inclusivity within the community. Detailed attention to user experience is reflected in the design's flexibility, anticipating future needs and diverse uses ranging from living and cultural activities to commercial endeavors.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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