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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Framework in a Community-Centric Artistic Residence

Authors:
Ila Colley, Dhamintha Wickremasinghe
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Framework in a Community-Centric Artistic Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and a robust concrete framework, the design fosters community engagement while serving as a multifunctional artistic residency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
04
Includes dedicated spaces for artist workshops, enhancing community involvement.
05
Designed with passive solar strategies to maximize energy efficiency.
The architectural project "The Harnessed House" presents a modern living space that draws inspiration from historical agricultural practices, particularly the relationship between humans and horses. This house functions as both a residence and a communal space for artistic collaboration. The design integrates various elements that emphasize communication, interaction, and community engagement. By examining the interplay of historic references and contemporary architectural practices, this project aims to create a harmonious living environment that encourages social connections.

Design Elements and Functionality

The unique layout of "The Harnessed House" utilizes design components based on the concept of harnessing, which involves the interactions between a horse and its driver. The project comprises four key elements: communication, draft, stopping and backing, and support. Each aspect serves a specific function within the design.

The communication component is exemplified through various open spaces that maintain visual connections, enabling interactions among residents and visitors. This design encourages an engaging atmosphere where communal and private activities can coexist.

The draft aspect is manifested in the arrangement of rooms that prioritize natural light and airflow, similar to traditional barns that utilize wide openings for ventilation. Spaces like the communal dining area and sauna facilitate social gatherings while promoting a natural flow of movement throughout the house.

The stopping and backing feature includes strategically placed access points that streamline movement across the building. This element emphasizes user experience, allowing for easy navigation while honoring the metaphor of a horse's capabilities to stop and reverse.

Lastly, the support component incorporates robust concrete structures that harmonize with the building's aesthetic while ensuring durability. The combination of large glass windows and passive solar design methods further enhances energy efficiency and visual connectivity with the surrounding landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

"The Harnessed House" distinguishes itself through its thoughtful integration of historical and contemporary architectural ideas. The narrative embedded in the design connects residents to their agricultural heritage, utilizing the metaphor of horse harnessing to inform spatial and functional aspects of the architecture.

Material selection plays a vital role in the overall expression of the project. Concrete provides structural integrity, while large glass panels eliminate barriers between indoor and outdoor environments, optimizing natural light. Wooden elements are also incorporated to introduce warmth, evoking a sense of connection to the natural world.

The overall site planning includes exterior areas designed for social interaction, allowing varied community engagements. Providing dynamic spaces for workshops and exhibitions illustrates the project’s commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration within the community.

For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design details of "The Harnessed House," further examination of the presentation materials is encouraged. Understanding these elements will offer deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shape this innovative project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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