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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Silo Transformation in Urban Housing Development

Authors:
Oh Juhyeon, Yang Geon
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Silo Transformation in Urban Housing Development

Project in-detail

Transformed silos clad in charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete create affordable housing solutions that seamlessly blend community living with sustainable practices in Toronto’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transformed silos integrate residential spaces with historical industrial architecture.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and enhanced fire safety.
03
Modular design allows for flexible living arrangements and adaptability.
04
Green roofs promote biodiversity and reduce urban heat island effects.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels improve structural efficiency while minimizing energy use.
The Post-SILO Effects architectural design project is located in Toronto’s Lower Don Lands, addressing urban overcrowding through innovative housing solutions. This project repurposes former industrial structures into livable spaces, promoting sustainable development and enhancing community living. The design focuses on increasing density while respecting the historical context of the area.

The project encompasses various housing types, including solo units, family units, and multi-family units. Each type is tailored to meet the needs of different demographics, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The spatial organization encourages social interaction among residents through shared communal spaces and communal gardens.

Innovative Design Approaches

A key feature of this project is the adaptive reuse of silos, transforming them from industrial structures into modern living spaces. This approach not only revitalizes the area but minimizes the environmental impact associated with new construction. The design emphasizes sustainability with materials such as reinforced concrete for structural integrity, extensive glass facades for natural light, and wood elements to enhance interior warmth.

The integration of green roofs on various levels contributes to biodiversity and aids in managing urban heat. This connection between nature and living spaces reflects a contemporary understanding of urban ecology and encourages residents to engage with their environment.

Functional and Aesthetic Integration

The architectural design process considers functionality alongside aesthetics. The layout promotes an efficient use of space, optimizing light and airflow throughout the units. Architectural sections illustrate the vertical organization and connectivity of different living areas, ensuring that residents experience both privacy and community interaction.

Each housing unit is designed with an emphasis on modular flexibility, allowing for potential modifications to accommodate changing needs. This adaptability is crucial in urban environments where demographic shifts can occur rapidly.

The Post-SILO Effects project exemplifies thoughtful urban redevelopment, merging historical context with modern architectural practices. To gain deeper insights into the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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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