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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Forming a Flexible Community Hub

Authors:
Andrea Smaniotto, Barbara Sandri
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Forming a Flexible Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design establishes a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, providing a multifunctional hub that enhances community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features expansive glass facades that promote natural light and connectivity with the outdoors.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainable design.
04
Integrates a unique bent A-frame that optimizes space and visual interest.
05
Includes a natural ventilation system that reduces energy consumption while maintaining comfort.
The project presented exhibits a thoughtful integration of contemporary architectural practices with a deep respect for its surroundings. Located in a vibrant urban context, the design represents a synthesis of function and aesthetics, aimed at enhancing both user experience and environmental sustainability. With a focus on adaptability and usability, this architectural endeavor caters to a diverse range of activities while fostering a sense of community among its users.

At its core, the project functions as a multi-purpose facility that accommodates various social and cultural activities. The design is structured around open, flexible spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration. This layout not only promotes community engagement but also allows for adaptable uses over time, showcasing the project’s versatility. Each area within the facility is purposefully designed to support specific activities while maintaining an overarching harmony that ties the spaces together.

The exterior of the building is characterized by a combination of carefully selected materials that enhance its visual appeal and functionality. Utilitarian concrete forms the structural backbone of the design, providing durability and thermal mass, while expansive glass facades invite natural light and create a seamless connection between the interior and the environment. The integration of wood elements adds warmth and an organic touch, reflecting a commitment to using natural materials that resonate with the surroundings. Additionally, the use of local stone not only strengthens the building's contextual relationship with its site but also honors regional architectural traditions.

One of the unique design approaches employed in this project is the innovative use of natural ventilation strategies. The architectural design incorporates operable windows and strategically placed openings that facilitate air circulation, thereby reducing reliance on mechanical systems. This passive design feature contributes to energy efficiency while ensuring a comfortable atmosphere for occupants year-round. Furthermore, the incorporation of green roofs and living walls enhances biodiversity and mitigates urban heat, further underscoring the project’s commitment to sustainability.

The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces is masterfully handled, with terraces and landscaped areas seamlessly merging with the building's core. These outdoor spaces not only serve as extensions of the interior areas but also encourage outdoor activities and social gatherings. The thoughtfully designed landscaping integrates native plant species, promoting ecological awareness and fostering a connection to the local environment.

Lighting plays a pivotal role in this project, as it highlights architectural features and creates ambiance throughout the various spaces. Daylight is harnessed effectively to illuminate interiors, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours. Additionally, carefully curated artificial lighting enhances the nighttime experience, transforming the building into a dynamic focal point within the urban landscape.

The project also includes various amenities that cater to the diverse needs of its users. Areas such as communal lounges, meeting rooms, and recreational spaces have been designed with user comfort and accessibility in mind, ensuring that all individuals can engage with the facility. The thoughtful arrangement of these amenities promotes interaction among different groups, reinforcing the project's aim to foster a sense of belonging within the community.

In summary, this architectural project represents a nuanced collaboration between form, function, and sustainability. It encapsulates a modern approach to design that respects both the environment and the needs of its users. The balance between indoor and outdoor experiences, combined with innovative features for energy efficiency, reflects a forward-thinking perspective on contemporary architecture. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this design, including architectural plans, sections, and ideas, a deeper investigation into the project presentation may provide valuable insights into its thoughtful execution and the philosophies underpinning its creation.
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MICROHOME
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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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