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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Frames Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Author:
Iain Jamieson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Frames Transforming Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a series of communal cul-de-sacs, where concrete frames create adaptable living spaces designed to encourage social interaction and support community well-being in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to create flexible, lightweight structures.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes internal space while maintaining a distinct visual profile.
04
Communal spaces are strategically positioned to foster spontaneous social engagement among residents.
05
Sustainable landscaping features native plants, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.
The architecture project known as "Cul-De-Sacs in the Clouds" presents a thoughtful and innovative response to the pressing housing needs in urban environments, particularly in a metropolis like London. This architectural endeavor embodies a significant shift in how communities can be structured within high-density housing projects while simultaneously addressing social interaction and well-being among residents.

At its core, the project serves to merge the familiar suburban concept of the cul-de-sac with the ambitious ideals of urban development. This integration represents a reconceptualization of community living, fostering connections among residents in an urban context often characterized by isolation. The unique design approach emphasizes comprehensive communal spaces that encourage interaction while maintaining the privacy of individual dwellings. This duality is a crucial aspect, as it caters not only to the functional requirements of living spaces but also to the social fabric essential for community building.

Cul-De-Sacs in the Clouds is functionally designed to offer a range of living units that accommodate diverse family structures. The architectural layout consists of multiple housing units arranged in circular or semi-circular configurations, creating a focal point for community-oriented activities. This design allows for efficient circulation as well as visual connections across the community. The central communal area establishes itself as a gathering space, enhanced by landscaped gardens and community facilities that promote various activities and interactions among residents.

This project is notable for its focus on materiality, employing a thoughtful selection of elements such as concrete, glass, metal, and colored panels. Each material serves specific functions: concrete underpins the structure’s integrity, while glass facades optimize natural light, creating a sense of openness. The inclusion of colored panels adds vibrancy, allowing individual units to express uniqueness while promoting a cohesive visual language throughout the community.

A key aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability, seamlessly woven into the architectural framework. Incorporating energy-efficient principles and passive solar design, the project enhances the living quality for residents while minimizing its environmental impact. This modern design approach showcases a balance of aesthetics and functionality, avoiding excessive ornamentation while maximizing comfort and usability.

Cul-De-Sacs in the Clouds also stands as a dialogue with the architectural forerunners, specifically the insights offered by Alison and Peter Smithson regarding high-density living. By honoring their vision of urban residential design, the project offers a contemporary interpretation of their ideas while addressing the challenges of today’s society. This deep connection to historical architectural concepts enriches the project's narrative, creating a bridge between past aspirations and modern requirements.

The overall result is an architectural configuration that not only provides shelter but also cultivates a sense of belonging among its inhabitants. By integrating thoughtful design, community-focused spaces, and sustainable practices, the project stands as a relevant case study in contemporary architectural discourse.

For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural ideas underpinning this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and the innovative architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with these details reveals the layers of thought and execution that define this unique urban housing solution.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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