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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Community-Centric Urban Housing Initiative

Author:
Dovile Ciapaite
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Facades in a Community-Centric Urban Housing Initiative

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and concrete facades create a distinct visual language in a reimagined urban housing project designed to foster community engagement and connectivity among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved environmental performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and encourage natural light.
04
Includes shared communal areas that foster resident interaction and connection.
05
Integrates extensive green spaces to enhance biodiversity within the urban setting.
The Hallfield Estate architectural project is a comprehensive reimagining of a significant urban development originally constructed in the mid-20th century in Paddington, London. Serving primarily as a residential complex, the estate encapsulates principles of modernist architecture while addressing contemporary housing needs. The project represents an effort to not only enhance the livability of the existing structures but also to foster a sense of community among residents, prioritizing engagement and participation in the design process.

At its core, Hallfield Estate is conceived to provide affordable housing in a densely populated urban area, emphasizing the importance of accessible living spaces. The design integrates various residential units, ensuring a mix of accommodation types suitable for diverse demographics. Central to this project is the focus on creating communal areas that promote social interaction, reflecting modern urban living's emphasis on connectivity and collaboration among residents.

The architectural design incorporates a range of materials aimed at balancing aesthetic appeal with functionality. Concrete, a predominant material, offers both structural integrity and a modernist visual language. Brick elements add warmth and texture to the facades, creating a nuanced relationship with the surrounding urban environment. Glass features in facades and communal spaces to enhance natural light, contributing to well-being and comfort for residents. Green spaces are interwoven throughout the estate, not only enriching the aesthetic landscape but also fostering biodiversity and offering recreational opportunities within an urban context.

A unique aspect of the Hallfield Estate project is its emphasis on community involvement in the design process. The initiative encourages residents to actively participate in discussions surrounding their living environment, which is critical in developing a sense of ownership and pride. This participatory approach extends to governance matters, where residents are invited to engage with decision-making, thereby shaping the future of their community. Such an inclusive strategy marks a shift from traditional top-down urban planning to a more egalitarian model, where the voices of those living in the space are given prominence.

The project also introduces concepts like self-build initiatives, encouraging residents to contribute physically and creatively to the estate’s evolution. This encourages collaboration and reinforces community ties while addressing some of the broader economic challenges faced in urban development. The Hallfield Estate is seen not only as a place of residence but as a community hub, where diverse groups can come together, fostering a vibrant social fabric.

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, the Hallfield Estate serves as a study in balancing historical context with modern urban challenges. Its design embodies an understanding of architecture as a living practice that must adapt to the changing needs of society. By examining the interplay between space, community, and governance, this project offers thoughtful insights into how urban housing can be restructured to enhance the quality of life.

For those interested in the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, there is ample opportunity to delve deeper into the project presentation. Engaging with these resources will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative approaches adopted in the Hallfield Estate redesign. The careful consideration given to layout, materiality, and resident involvement illustrates a thoughtful evolution of architectural practices that prioritize community and adaptability within the urban landscape.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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