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

Authors:
Aleksandar JoksimoviĆ, Jelena Nikolic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Flexible Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the community hub seamlessly blends sustainability with flexibility to serve as a dynamic space for collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light while providing distinct aesthetics.
04
Integrates indoor and outdoor spaces using sliding glass elements for seamless connectivity.
05
Designed with flexible layouts that adapt to various community activities and gatherings.
This architectural project represents a thoughtful and functional response to its geographical context, embodying principles that align with modern design philosophies while paying homage to the surrounding environment. It serves as a multifunctional space that accommodates community interactions, while simultaneously fostering individual reflections—an essential balance in contemporary architectural design. The concept originated from the desire to create a seamless integration of the built environment with natural elements, ensuring that the architecture acts as a facilitator of engagement rather than merely a backdrop.

The primary function of the project revolves around its role as a community hub, designed to cater to various activities ranging from educational programs to social gatherings. Within its spatial organization, the layout promotes fluid movement throughout the space, allowing users to navigate easily between distinct areas. This idea is underscored by the inclusion of open plan features that encourage collaboration and communication among users. The provision of flexible spaces further enhances the functionality of the building, allowing rooms to adapt to the needs of users, whether for group workshops or individual reflection.

Key architectural elements are apparent in both the exterior and interior design. The façade is characterized by a blend of materials that resonate with the local vernacular while introducing modern sensibilities. Notable materials include locally sourced brick, glass, and timber, each chosen for its aesthetic properties as well as its sustainability. The use of brick evokes a sense of permanence and ties the structure to its context, while expansive glass panels create transparency and foster connections with the surrounding landscape. Timber elements, incorporated in both structural and finish details, introduce warmth to the space, enhancing the overall user experience.

Landscaping plays a critical role in defining the character of the project. Thoughtfully designed outdoor areas offer a natural extension of the interior spaces, inviting users to interact with nature as well as with each other. The integration of native plant species not only contributes to the ecological performance of the site but also reinforces a sense of place and local identity, anchoring the project firmly within its geographical location.

An aspect that stands out in this architectural design is the unique approach to sunlight and shade. The strategic placement of overhangs and adjustable shading devices allows for controlled natural light throughout the day, minimizing the need for artificial lighting and reducing energy consumption. This sustainable strategy reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship, highlighting an understanding of the climatic conditions of the area and the implications for energy efficiency.

In addition to addressing functional needs, the project aspires to create a sense of community identity. By engaging with local stakeholders during the design process, the architects ensured that the building reflects collective aspirations and acknowledges historical narratives. This participatory approach fosters a stronger connection between the users and the space, as it has been explicitly designed to serve the community's needs and values.

The overall architectural design showcases how form and function can harmoniously coexist. It illustrates that aesthetic considerations can enhance usability without sacrificing practicality. Each element—from the choice of materials to the spatial organization—has been carefully considered to create an outcome that is both reflective of its environment and adaptable to the diverse activities it supports.

Exploring this project’s architectural plans and sections can provide further insight into the detailed design intentions, showcasing how each aspect works together to create a cohesive whole. In delving into the architectural ideas presented, one can appreciate the intricacies of the design approach and how they contribute to the project’s overall success. For a more comprehensive understanding, viewers are encouraged to analyze the presented materials that highlight the architects’ vision, reinforcing the project’s significance within the architectural discourse.
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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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