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

Authors:
Karol Kuzniak, Julie Mikkelsen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the multi-purpose facility effectively integrates sustainable materials and flexible spaces to serve a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a flexible layout that adapts to various community needs over time.
04
Features extensive glazing to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the environment.
05
Includes a green roof system to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.

Located in a dynamic urban setting, this architectural design project exemplifies a fusion of functionality and modern aesthetics. The structure serves as a multi-purpose facility, designed to accommodate various activities, including commercial and recreational functions. Its design effectively responds to the surrounding environment while prioritizing user experience and connectivity with both the interior and exterior spaces.

The architecture features a series of interlocking volumes that create distinct but cohesive spaces. This modular approach not only enhances the visual complexity of the structure but also optimizes the functional flow between different areas. The façade incorporates large glass panels, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interior, thereby creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This element interacts with the surrounding urban landscape, blurring the boundary between indoors and outdoors.

The unique aspect of this project is its emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency. The incorporation of green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and solar panels highlights a commitment to minimizing the environmental impact. The choice of materials further supports this objective; recycled steel frames and low-VOC finishes were utilized to enhance both durability and indoor air quality. This thoughtful material selection is not only practical but also serves to link the building to its ecological context, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

Innovative design strategies were applied in creating flexible spaces that can adapt to diverse uses over time. Moveable partitions and modular furniture allow for easy reconfiguration, catering to the evolving needs of the community. The integration of outdoor terraces and communal areas encourages social interaction, breaking down barriers between users and fostering a sense of community within the urban fabric.

In addition, the project demonstrates a careful consideration of circulation patterns, ensuring easy navigation throughout the space. Clear sightlines and intuitive pathways guide users efficiently and enhance accessibility. The comprehensive approach to design, from conceptualization to execution, demonstrates a keen understanding of the relationship between architecture and the lived experience.

For further exploration of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation for in-depth insights and analyses. This examination of architectural elements can provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s impact within its context.

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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

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