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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Forms Infusing Community Living in Urban Sydney

Authors:
Erik Vodenik, Simon Magerl
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Forms Infusing Community Living in Urban Sydney

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles with expansive glass facades, this urban development redefines community living in Sydney by integrating sustainable materials and communal spaces for young creatives.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and natural fire resistance.
02
A central courtyard serves as a multifunctional gathering space, fostering community interaction.
03
Sustainable elements include green roofs that improve insulation and promote local biodiversity.
04
The use of cross-laminated timber panels significantly reduces construction time and carbon footprint.
05
The bent A-frame design maximizes internal space while providing an airy, open aesthetic.
This project is an innovative approach to affordable housing in Sydney, designed to meet the needs of young creative residents while integrating various functions into a cohesive urban environment. The architecture embodies a responsive solution to the pressing challenges of urban living, addressing issues of space, community, and sustainability.

At its core, this architectural design emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of community. The layout includes residential units alongside shared facilities that promote collaboration and social interaction. This multifunctionality is central to the project, as it allows residents to live, work, and engage with one another seamlessly. The design fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging residents to interact in communal spaces, which include a creative hub and recreational areas.

The overall function of the project is to provide affordable housing while also enhancing quality of life. It is a well-considered response to the rising housing costs in urban environments, particularly for young professionals who seek not only a place to live but also a community that supports their lifestyle. The design includes a variety of apartment sizes and configurations, allowing for diverse living arrangements. This flexibility ensures that individuals or small families can find a suitable residence to meet their needs.

Among the important parts of the project are the residential units arranged around a central courtyard, which serves as the heart of the development. This open space is designed for social activities, encouraging residents to come together for events or simply to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The integration of recreational facilities, such as a football pitch, signifies the commitment to promoting an active lifestyle among residents while also considering their holistic well-being.

The architectural approach reflects a deep understanding of materiality and environmental context. Concrete is the primary structural material, providing durability and a practical foundation for the buildings. Large glass windows punctuate the facade, inviting natural light into living spaces and creating a sense of openness. The use of green roofs in the design enhances both aesthetics and environmental sustainability, promoting biodiversity and enlivening the urban landscape.

A unique aspect of this project is its mixed-use philosophy. Unlike many traditional residential developments, these buildings blur the lines between home and workplace. The creative community hub is specifically designed to be a space where residents can pursue projects, collaborate, and engage in learning experiences. This focus on design innovation aims to create an environment where residents can cultivate their creative endeavors while benefiting from shared resources and knowledge.

Another noteworthy feature is the project's landscaping, which integrates various plantings around the site, enhancing the overall quality of life for the residents. These green spaces contribute to improved air quality and provide essential connections to nature within the urban landscape. The strategic placement of trees and gardens not only beautifies the environment but also fosters mindfulness and relaxation, essential for the well-being of the community.

Overall, this project exemplifies a thoughtful response to contemporary urban living challenges. The coherent design integrates essential functions while focusing on community and sustainability. Readers interested in exploring the architectural details further are encouraged to review the architectural plans and sections, as well as the unique architectural designs and ideas embedded in this project. These insights reveal a comprehensive vision that addresses the needs of modern residents while enhancing their quality of life within an urban setting.
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Enter an open architecture
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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Chair
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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