Get inspired!

17,249 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 Sustainable Hub for Community Engagement

Authors:
Antonio giovanni Minutella, Luigi Pintacuda
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Hub for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With a façade of charred wooden shingles and a structure comprised of cross-laminated timber, the design serves as a sustainable cultural hub that fosters community engagement and artistic expression.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for quick assembly and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial experience and structural efficiency.
04
Includes flexible spaces designed for diverse artistic activities and community engagement.
05
Employs reclaimed timber to maintain historical context while promoting eco-friendliness.
The Omuli Museum project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architectural design that respects historical contexts while meeting modern requirements. This architectural endeavor seeks to optimize the use of space within a culturally significant environment, creating a multifunctional hub dedicated to the arts and community engagement. The design integrates aspects of sustainability, flexibility, and transparency, ensuring that the museum serves as a relevant and dynamic institution.

Phase-based development defines this architectural project, with the first phase focusing on minimal renovations to existing structures. This approach preserves historical elements while accommodating enhanced functionalities. The second phase features the adaptation of a stone barn, providing necessary facilities for artists and reinforcing a connection to the museum’s heritage. The final phase introduces a new building that seeks to embody the aforementioned concepts through innovative design choices.

Architectural Functionality and Unique Design Approaches

A central element of the Omuli Museum's design is its conceptual foundation, derived from the physical attributes of horses. The representation of "muscle strength" and "movement lightness" informs both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. The integration of these concepts manifests in various ways throughout the space. The retention of original walls signifies durability and history, while the incorporation of extensive glass surfaces promotes a sense of lightness and openness, breaking down physical and psychological barriers between the interior and the surrounding landscape.

The project utilizes a diverse array of materials that not only serve practical purposes but also contribute to the sustainability of the design. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) features prominently, offering structural integrity while also reducing the building's overall carbon footprint. Hempcrete serves as an eco-friendly insulation material, merging traditional techniques with modern performance standards. Reclaimed timber is incorporated to maintain a tangible link to the past, enhancing the project’s narrative quality.

Furthermore, triple-glazed windows enhance thermal efficiency while maximizing natural light intake, allowing the interior spaces to resonate with a sense of tranquility and alignment with nature. This choice emphasizes an architectural focus on sustainable energy use while affording striking views of the surrounding environment, enriching the visitor experience.

Design Elements that Encourage Community Engagement

In line with the museum's mission to foster artistic expression, the Omuli Museum features flexible spaces that facilitate various functions, such as exhibitions, workshops, and performances. These adaptable areas signify a departure from traditional museums, which often remain static in their offerings. The inclusion of communal facilities, such as an open-air theater, serves to broaden the museum's role within the community, acting as a venue for cultural exchange and interaction.

The thoughtful arrangement of architectural plans provides clear pathways for movement, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Design decisions prioritize accessibility, ensuring that all individuals can engage with the museum's offerings. This level of consideration towards inclusivity and community involvement highlights an essential aspect of the project’s ethos.

The Omuli Museum project illustrates a comprehensive approach to architectural design that balances respect for historical lineage with a commitment to progressive ideals. Its attention to sustainable materials, spatial flexibility, and community engagement sets it apart from other cultural institutions. For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and designs that inform this project, interested readers are encouraged to review the detailed project presentation. This assessment of architectural ideas and their practical implications underscores the importance of informed design within the contemporary architectural discourse.
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 17,249 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