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Charred Wooden Shingles and Corten Weathering in a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Michela Barone Lumaga, Noah Nathanaël Paul-henri Piton, Antoine Raymond Gonzague Malgouyres, Elin Lovisa Lindström
Charred Wooden Shingles and Corten Weathering in a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing its striking Corten weathering and sustainable charred wooden shingles, the design creates a harmonious community hub that fosters social interaction while seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that reduce construction waste and promote sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
04
Integrates native landscaping to support local biodiversity and create a seamless transition to the environment.
05
Includes flexible interior spaces designed for multi-functional use, promoting community engagement and adaptability.
The project presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, blending functionality with a strong sense of place. Located in a vibrant urban context, this architectural endeavor serves a multifaceted purpose, creating a space that is not only a physical structure but also a community hub. The design emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and the social fabric of its surroundings, striving to enhance the quality of life for its users while respecting the local architectural vernacular.

At its core, the project represents a commitment to sustainability and innovation, addressing the ever-evolving needs of modern urban life. The building is designed to accommodate diverse activities, providing spaces for both communal interaction and individual contemplation. This dual functionality fosters an inclusive environment where various user groups can come together, reflecting a modern understanding of community dynamics. The careful consideration of light and space ensures that each area within the structure is adaptable, allowing for flexible use throughout the day.

One of the most notable features of the project is its architectural form. The design employs a series of interlocking volumes that create visual interest while maintaining a coherent overall structure. This layering of spaces not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also optimizes natural light penetration, allowing for a bright and inviting interior. Large windows and strategic openings facilitate a seamless connection between inside and outside, erasing the boundaries that often separate architecture from its surroundings. In doing so, the design promotes a sense of openness and transparency, encouraging interaction between the building and the community at large.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project, with an emphasis on using locally sourced and sustainable materials. The façade features a combination of reinforced concrete and Corten steel, materials chosen for their durability and the way they weather over time. This thoughtful approach to materiality not only enhances the building's longevity but also reinforces its connection to the local landscape. Inside, the use of sustainable wood provides warmth and texture, creating inviting spaces that encourage occupants to linger. The careful integration of landscaping with the architecture further enriches the environment, with native plants incorporated to promote biodiversity and create visually pleasing outdoor areas.

A unique aspect of the design is its commitment to biophilic principles, which aim to connect occupants with nature. This is demonstrated through the implementation of green roofs and walls, designed not only as aesthetic features but also as environmental solutions, enhancing insulation and reducing energy consumption. The project embodies a holistic approach to architecture, encouraging an awareness of environmental issues while providing a healthy and enriching space for its users.

The overall design reflects a sensitive engagement with its context, respecting the existing urban fabric while introducing new ideas that elevate the standard of contemporary architecture in the area. A careful analysis of site conditions and community needs informed the decision-making process, resulting in a project that harmonizes with its environment. Each detail, from the arrangement of spaces to the choice of materials, has been thoughtfully considered to ensure that the architecture serves both practical functions and artistic expression.

For those interested in exploring the project's architectural plans, sections, and design ideas in greater detail, additional materials and visual representations are available for review. This project exemplifies how architecture can effectively respond to contemporary challenges while fostering a sense of community and connection to the natural environment. The commitment to sustainable design practices, innovative approaches to form, and careful material selection positions this project as a significant contribution to the architectural landscape, inviting further exploration and appreciation.
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MICROHOME
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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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