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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Biophilic Community Hub

Authors:
Evangelos Mitsianis, Maria Michali
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Biophilic Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design embodies an eco-conscious approach that cultivates a seamless connection with nature, serving as a vibrant community hub for social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact, showcasing sustainable practices.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while creating distinctive visual lines that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.
04
Green roofs are integrated to promote biodiversity and improve insulation, reducing energy consumption throughout the year.
05
The layout fosters community interaction by strategically placing communal areas to encourage social engagement and shared experiences.
The architectural project in question exemplifies a thoughtful interplay between form and function, meticulously designed to serve the needs of its users while respecting the surrounding environment. Located in a vibrant urban setting, the project is conceived not just as a structure, but as a communal space that fosters interaction and connectivity among its inhabitants. The core function is centered on creating a multifunctional environment that accommodates both personal and social activities, illustrating the contemporary emphasis on versatility in architectural design.

This project represents a synthesis of modern architectural principles and environmental responsiveness, where every element is carefully considered to resonate with the local context. The design seeks to engage the whole community, promoting inclusivity through its spatial arrangement and inviting atmosphere. The facade, characterized by a harmonious blend of materials, speaks to the regional architectural language while introducing contemporary aesthetics. The use of large glazing panels allows natural light to penetrate deep into the interior spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that reduces reliance on artificial lighting.

The building's layout is carefully organized to facilitate ease of movement and interaction. Public areas are located on the ground level, promoting accessibility and encouraging community gatherings, while private spaces are strategically positioned to ensure privacy without isolating them from the communal atmosphere. Each transition between spaces is seamlessly designed, enhancing the overall user experience.

A notable aspect of this architectural design is the incorporation of sustainable practices that enhance its environmental efficacy. Materials such as reclaimed wood and local stone not only ground the project in its geographical context but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and manufacturing. The use of green roofs helps to mitigate urban heat, promote biodiversity, and promote energy efficiency, aligning with contemporary sustainable architectural ideals.

Design approaches employed in this project reflect a deeper intention to connect with nature. Courtyards and green terraces introduce natural elements into urban life, fostering biophilic connections that enhance the well-being of the building's occupants. These outdoor spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the overall design, providing not just aesthetic value but also functional areas for relaxation and social interaction.

The architectural details within the project are as significant as the overarching concepts. From carefully designed eaves that protect against rain while allowing for natural ventilation, to cleverly positioned overhangs that optimize shade, each element is purposefully integrated. The interiors reflect a careful selection of materials that demonstrate a balance between durability and comfort, ensuring that spaces are both functional and inviting.

The project, positioned within its urban fabric, respects and enhances its environment. The careful consideration of scale and proportion allows it to coexist harmoniously with neighboring structures while standing out as a modern contribution to the streetscape. This respect for the context is evident in the project's scale and material selection, which echo the historic architecture found in the vicinity, creating a dialogue between the old and the new.

As one explores the multifaceted layers of this architectural project, the richness of the design becomes apparent, illustrating the thoughtful consideration of both user needs and environmental impact. For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, further exploration of the project presentation will provide valuable insights into the intention and execution of this exemplary work of architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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