Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Community Hub with Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection

Authors:
Romdham Patanavin, Bryan Hikaru Suzuki, Jonathan Adam Harris
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Community Hub with Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Connection

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design elegantly blurs the line between interior and exterior, creating a multifunctional community space that invites engagement and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and minimize waste.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while creating striking visual lines.
04
Integrates extensive outdoor nooks, encouraging interaction with nature.
05
Employs passive solar design principles to optimize energy efficiency throughout the seasons.
The project under analysis showcases a thoughtful approach to architecture, embodying a blend of contemporary design principles and functional considerations tailored to its environment. This design aims to address the needs of its users while also respecting the unique characteristics of the surrounding landscape, resulting in a cohesive and harmonious structure.

At first glance, the project reveals a strong emphasis on transparency and light, using large glass facades that not only serve as a visual connection between the interior and exterior but also enhance natural daylighting within the space. This strategy promotes a sense of openness and invites the outside in, which is particularly important in urban settings where nature can often feel removed from daily life. The use of glass is complemented by carefully selected supporting materials that provide balance and warmth to the overall aesthetic. In particular, the integration of timber elements provides an organic touch, softening the industrial feel often associated with contemporary architecture, while also contributing to sustainability goals through a renewable material choice.

The design functions as a multifunctional community space, serving various purposes such as meetings, social gatherings, and educational activities. This multifunctionality is evident in the layout, which incorporates flexible spaces that can be adapted to accommodate different group sizes and functions. Open-plan areas are interspersed with private nooks that allow for quieter interactions, demonstrating a keen understanding of user dynamics and social engagement. This thoughtful distribution of space underscores the project's commitment to fostering community connections and interactions.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the architecture. The project's massing and form respond not only to functional needs but also to climatic considerations, applying passive design principles to enhance energy efficiency. Overhangs and shading devices are integrated into the design to mitigate solar heat gain, promoting thermal comfort within the interior. The careful consideration of local climate conditions reflects a deeper respect for environmental context, ensuring that the building performs well throughout the seasons.

Landscaping plays a critical role in this architectural project, seamlessly blurring the boundaries between the built environment and nature. Native plants and trees are strategically placed around the structure, contributing to biodiversity, improving air quality, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the site. This connection to the natural environment is a crucial element of the design philosophy, reinforcing the project's role as a community hub that encourages outdoor engagement.

Furthermore, the integration of modern technology into the architectural framework demonstrates an innovative approach to enhancing user experience. Smart building systems have been incorporated, allowing for efficient energy management and user control over the environment. This forward-thinking aspect of the design not only promotes sustainability but also enriches the functional capabilities of the space, positioning it as a forward-looking landmark in its community.

The architectural language of the project, characterized by clean lines and purposeful geometry, reflects a dedication to simplicity and functional beauty. This minimalistic style is further supported by a neutral color palette that includes whites, grays, and natural wood tones, facilitating a tranquil atmosphere conducive to the project’s intended functions. The careful choice of materials and finishes marries durability with aesthetic appeal, ensuring that the building is both long-lasting and visually engaging.

In conclusion, this architectural project exemplifies a strong synthesis of form, function, and context, addressing the needs of users while thoughtfully engaging with the surrounding environment. Through innovative design strategies and a careful selection of materials, it creates a space that is as functional as it is inviting. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy