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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Cultural Hub Emphasizing Heritage and Community Engagement

Authors:
Diana-maria Lazar, Carmen-mihaela Placinta
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Cultural Hub Emphasizing Heritage and Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With a façade of charred wooden shingles and a structure crafted from cross-laminated timber, the development serves as a museum and guest house, bridging local heritage with modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation within the space.
04
A central courtyard integrates landscape features with community gathering areas.
05
The renovation preserves historical elements while adapting for modern use.

The Omuli project encompasses the transformation of a former school building into a multifaceted cultural venue, incorporating a Museum of the Horse alongside a guest house. This architectural endeavor emphasizes a balance between historical conservation and contemporary functionality, making it significant within its geographical context. The design includes the restoration of the existing school structure and the integration of a newly constructed wing, collectively creating a space that fosters community engagement and cultural appreciation.

Architecturally, the project honors the site's heritage while adapting it for modern usage. The original school building's exterior features are retained, reflecting traditional architectural aesthetics, with enhancements made to the interior for functionality as both guest accommodations and exhibit space. The new extension incorporates elements inspired by local agricultural and equestrian vernacular, resulting in a cohesive design identity that respects its surroundings.

Preservation of Historical Integrity
A critical aspect of the Omuli project is its dedication to preserving the historical integrity of the existing school building. The original façade elements, such as windows and doors, are restored and repurposed, maintaining the time-honored appearance while optimizing the interior layout. This approach emphasizes respect for the cultural narrative of the site, enabling educational programs and exhibitions that inform visitors about the significance of the local equestrian culture.

The new extension diverges from traditional forms while remaining contextually relevant. Designed to serve as an exhibition space, library, and relaxation area with a spa, this contemporary structure features a straightforward aesthetic that enhances its functionality. The roof design nods to horse stables, reinforcing the thematic connection while ensuring visual harmony with the historical building.

Functional Versatility and Community Engagement
The Omuli project excels in functional versatility, serving as a hub for cultural and recreational activities. The interplay between the restored school and the new extension generates dynamic spaces that encourage exploration and interaction. The guest house component provides accommodations, and the exhibition area highlights the significance of horses in local culture, offering educational programming that attracts diverse audiences.

Architectural details, such as the integration of natural light through strategically placed windows and the incorporation of outdoor spaces, enhance the visitor experience. The surrounding gardens feature local flora, promoting sustainability and creating serene environments for leisure and social interaction. This thoughtful landscaping complements the architecture, integrating the built environment with the natural landscape.

The combination of historical preservation, functional adaptability, and community focus sets the Omuli project apart. The commitment to honoring local heritage while providing modern amenities showcases a comprehensive understanding of the architectural needs within the cultural context.

To gain deeper insights into the Omuli project, including its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. The details found therein elucidate the architectural vision behind this transformative endeavor.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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
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