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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Focused Living Spaces

Author:
Lu Gao
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Community-Focused Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design fosters a harmonious integration of nature and community, creating versatile living spaces that prioritize sustainability and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates a rainwater management system integrated within the green roof, enhancing sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide aesthetic appeal but also offer enhanced fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural integrity, reducing the overall carbon footprint.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and ventilation while creating dynamic interior spaces.
05
Community gathering areas are strategically positioned to encourage social interactions and connectivity among residents.
The project represents a thoughtful exploration of modern architectural design, embodying a refined balance between aesthetics and functionality. Situated in an urban environment, this architectural endeavor serves multiple purposes while reflecting the surrounding context and engaging with its community. The design is fundamentally rooted in principles of sustainability and innovation, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature.

At the heart of the project lies its function, which caters to a diverse range of activities. This multifunctional space accommodates not just residential living but also community interaction, fostering a sense of belonging among its users. The architectural design prioritizes flexibility, allowing for different configurations and uses that adapt over time to meet evolving needs. The integration of communal areas promotes social engagement, making the architecture a vital part of everyday life in the locality.

The architectural design is characterized by its thoughtful materiality, which plays a critical role in establishing both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The use of locally sourced materials emphasizes environmental responsibility and supports the local economy. Key materials include high-performance concrete, sustainably harvested timber, and extensive glazing, each chosen to enhance the building's energy efficiency while providing visual warmth and connection to the outdoors. The concrete structure offers robustness and longevity, while the timber elements contribute to a natural texture juxtaposed against the smooth facade. The glazing is meticulously arranged to optimize natural light, enhancing the interior spaces and reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

The roof design is particularly notable, featuring a green roof system that introduces biodiversity into the urban setting while improving thermal performance. This element not only benefits the building occupants by providing insulation and reducing energy costs but also contributes positively to the overall ecosystem. The design employs rainwater harvesting techniques, ensuring a sustainable approach to water management that further highlights the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Unique insights can be gleaned from the integration of passive design strategies that maximize energy efficiency. Large overhangs and strategically placed windows facilitate natural ventilation and cooling, minimizing the need for mechanical systems. The architectural design incorporates shading devices that reflect the sun's path, reducing heat gain in warmer months while allowing for solar gain in the winter. This thoughtful response to climatic conditions showcases the project's alignment with contemporary architectural ideas focused on sustainability.

Details throughout the building reflect a cohesive design language, from the carefully considered floor plans to the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Each aspect of the project invites users to engage with their surroundings, fostering a strong connection to the natural environment. Ramps and accessible pathways are designed to accommodate all users, reinforcing an inclusive approach that not only adheres to regulatory requirements but enhances the overall user experience.

Emphasizing transparency and lightness, the facade employs a rhythmic composition of horizontal and vertical elements that visually break down scale and add depth. Balconies, terraces, and outdoor spaces are framed within the architecture, creating private retreats that encourage outdoor living in an urban context. The careful orchestration of views from both within and outside the building enriches the experience of the users and highlights the contextual relationship with the neighborhood.

In observing the project as a whole, it is clear that the architectural design is a response to the contemporary challenges of urban living, seamlessly merging individual and community needs. The careful attention to material selection, environmental impact, and user experience collectively elevates the project within the architectural landscape. For readers interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this design, exploring elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide additional context and understanding of the nuances that define this project. Engaging with these resources will enhance appreciation for the intricate details that come together to form a cohesive and functional architectural piece.
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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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