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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Urban Community Center

Author:
Micheale Nguse Tesfay
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Urban Community Center

Project in-detail

With a façade of charred wooden shingles and an inviting interior of cross-laminated timber, the community center serves as a flexible gathering space that emphasizes sustainability and connection in an urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The façade incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lightweight yet robust structural system that promotes sustainability.
03
An integrated green roof supports biodiversity and mitigates heat island effects in the urban environment.
04
Flexible interior spaces can adapt to various community needs, promoting versatile usage.
05
Natural daylighting strategies enhance the building’s energy efficiency while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The architectural project under consideration stands as a well-considered embodiment of contemporary design principles and functional adaptability. Rooted in practicality while exhibiting a clear aesthetic language, the structure functions primarily as a community center, aiming to foster social interaction and inclusivity among residents. The design effectively merges utility with a keen awareness of the surrounding environment, emphasizing the importance of communal spaces in urban contexts.

The project's overall form is characterized by a harmonious balance between open areas and defined spaces. This layout promotes fluid movement, allowing for both privacy and group activities within the same footprint. The central atrium serves as the heart of the building, inviting natural light while simultaneously acting as a gathering point. The strategic orientation of the building is informed by sunlight patterns, which have been meticulously planned to maximize daylight penetration and enhance energy efficiency. The use of large, strategically placed windows facilitates cross-ventilation, contributing to the indoor climate and reducing dependence on artificial HVAC systems.

Materiality plays a fundamental role in this architectural endeavor. The primary materials used include reinforced concrete and sustainably sourced timber, chosen not only for their durability but also for their aesthetic qualities. Concrete forms the structural backbone and is artistically exposed in various areas, providing a raw, industrial feel that contrasts beautifully with the warmth of wood. The timber elements add a natural touch, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages community engagement. The integration of green roofs and living walls further enhances the project, promoting biodiversity and reducing heat island effects in the vicinity.

A notable design aspect is the attention to detail in the transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. Terraces and balconies extend the usable area of the center, facilitating outdoor programming and fostering a connection with nature. This seamless integration of spaces is reflective of a broader trend in architecture that seeks to dissolve the boundaries between built environments and their natural surroundings.

Furthermore, the architectural design incorporates flexible room configurations that adapt to various functions, from workshops and meetings to recreational activities. This adaptability is central to the project's mission, catering to diverse community needs and ensuring long-term relevance. Thoughtful consideration has been given to acoustics and lighting, supporting various activities without compromising comfort.

Unique to this project is its approach to community engagement during the design process, where feedback from local stakeholders significantly informed material choices and spatial arrangements. This collaborative effort not only aligns the architecture with the specific needs and desires of the community but also fosters a sense of ownership among residents.

In summary, this architectural project is an eloquent reflection of modern design that merges functionality with ecological awareness. By effectively utilizing space and materials, the design promotes community connectivity while respecting the surrounding environment. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements that present further insights into the project's execution and its significance in contemporary architecture. A deeper examination of its architectural ideas will undoubtedly reveal the thoughtful strategies employed to achieve both aesthetic and functional excellence.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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